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Re: Hell mode on vo-52
by Charles Reiche 20 Feb '08

20 Feb '08

RRR I copied K2MO just as the bird set to my north.... I thought i heard someone call around my freq prior to copying k2mo, maybe you Drew. Charlie N3CRT ----- Original Message ----- From: "Andrew Glasbrenner" <glasbrenner(a)mindspring.com> To: "Charles Reiche" <reichec(a)verizon.net> Sent: Tuesday, February 19, 2008 9:10 PM Subject: Re: [amsat-bb] Hell mode on vo-52 >I thought I heard you a time or two, and I cqed some around 915. The next >pass is much better for me, and I'll be back on around .915. > > 73, Drew KO4MA > > ----- Original Message ----- > From: "Charles Reiche" <reichec(a)verizon.net> > To: <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> > Sent: Tuesday, February 19, 2008 7:33 PM > Subject: [amsat-bb] Hell mode on vo-52 > > >> Pending approval of the other half, I will be attempting Hellschreiber >> mode somewhere above the center of the vo-52 downlink on the next east >> coast pass here Feb 20, 2008 at 01:50 UTC, and potentially the next more >> westerly pass around 03:30 UTC. I will be using fast full doppler >> control and be working with feldhell mode unless someone replies fast >> with other suggestions or recommendations. >> >> This will be my first attempt with hell mode using what I think should >> work... :) >> Hope to hear from you. >> >> Charlie >> N3CRT >> _______________________________________________ >> 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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Hell mode on vo-52
by Charles Reiche 20 Feb '08

20 Feb '08

Pending approval of the other half, I will be attempting Hellschreiber mode somewhere above the center of the vo-52 downlink on the next east coast pass here Feb 20, 2008 at 01:50 UTC, and potentially the next more westerly pass around 03:30 UTC. I will be using fast full doppler control and be working with feldhell mode unless someone replies fast with other suggestions or recommendations. This will be my first attempt with hell mode using what I think should work... :) Hope to hear from you. Charlie N3CRT

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The Store
by Martha 20 Feb '08

20 Feb '08

Thanks to Emily, the store is up and running. It has moved to a new host and sound be a bit faster. -- 73- Martha

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PCSat
by Fred (VE3FAL) 20 Feb '08

20 Feb '08

What exactly is the frequency for PCSat and how would I set up my home station to link with it. I find some information but nothing that has helped me. Thanks Fred VE3FAL --- avast! Antivirus: Outbound message clean. Virus Database (VPS): 080218-0, 18/02/2008 Tested on: 19/02/2008 6:05:50 PM avast! - copyright (c) 1988-2008 ALWIL Software. http://www.avast.com

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Searching for a Bird 4380A-488
by Smith, Alan L 19 Feb '08

19 Feb '08

Message: I am in need of a Bird 4380A-488 interface unit for the Bird 4391 wattmeter. Any help locating one that is in good serviceable condition would be appreciated. Thank you for your help. Alan Smith alan.l.smith(a)ngc.com

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Re: proposing a new gentleman's rule...
by Robert Turlington 19 Feb '08

19 Feb '08

Yes Auke I couldn't agree with you more,I would further add that any Station wishing to call CQ after hearing another calling CQ should at least allow sufficient time for a response to the original call.There have been numerous occasions when stations answering my CQ call have blocked out by another CQ call almost straight afterwards!Regards Robert G8ATE > Date: Mon, 18 Feb 2008 15:47:00 -0700> From: sparkycivic(a)shaw.ca> To: amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> Subject: [amsat-bb] proposing a new gentleman's rule...> > In light of hearing some stations calling "CQ" or "CQ Satellite" and then failing to reply to the terurn calls, I have realized that there is a need for a new procedure to be used when calling "CQ" on satellites. This is needed in order to address multiple satellites sharing a common uplink frequency, and having overlapping(or nearly-so) footprints. In particular, AO-51 and AO-16 are using 145.92 FM for their voice uplinks, and their footprints are presently seperated by only a few minutes. > > Perhaps the considerate operator should be naming the satellite that they are trying to use while calling, in order to avoid confusion or frustration when the operator's calls might be inadvertently received on multiple sats at once. > > Any thoughts?> > Auke de Jong> VE6PWN> DO33go> Edmonton, AB> > _______________________________________________> 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 _________________________________________________________________ Free games, great prizes - get gaming at Gamesbox. http://www.searchgamesbox.com

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Re: G-5500 Manual
by Gary Schuchardt 19 Feb '08

19 Feb '08

Thank you Tony. The G-5400 / G-5600 rotator instruction manuals are more improved over the G-5500. This has exactly what I need in terms of the actual rotator schematics showing parts and a parts listing so that an owner can order the parts they need. The guts are most likely close to how the G-5500 is arranged. I asked Yaesu several times for this and they never sent this information for my rotator. This will help. Gary N0EZH Chesapeake -------Original Message------- From: Tony Stone Date: 2/18/2008 3:51:49 PM To: Gary Schuchardt Subject: Re: [amsat-bb] Re: G-5500 Manual I hope this helps. 73 Tony W4TAS

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IC-910 TNC connections
by Jeff Mock 19 Feb '08

19 Feb '08

What's the best way to hook an IC-910 to a TNC for digital modes? For awhile now I've been listening to the packets from GO-32 and I would now like to start sending some packets. Up until now, I've used the miniDin-6 for the main band and taking the 9600-baud audio line to the TNC with good results. In order to transmit I think that I need to build a spit cable, Rx audio to the sub band and Tx audio to main band miniDin connector? This all seems to get too complicated when I need to build yet another cable for Tx/Rx on the same band, and even more cables for 1200-baud vs. 9600-baud audio connections. Is there a good solution or do you wind up having a bunch of different cables for various situations? jeff AD6EO

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was Re: really strange RX
by Mark L. Hammond 19 Feb '08

19 Feb '08

Hi Alan, Yes, I had to dig my PSK stuff out of storage, too :) It's a bit nostalgic...but really cool when you see it still works! However, TLMDC won't work with the satellites in their current state. Rather, they are transmitting Microsat Boot Loader (MBL) telemetry that has to be collected in KISS mode--using something like Wisp. For IO-26, it's MBL KISS files can be decoded by Mike's DK3WN's great IO-26 MBL telemetry decoder here: http://www.dk3wn.info/software.shtml It has a nice graphic display of the telemetry channels. And YES, if you can grab the KISS files I'm interested in receiving them! 73, Mark N8MH >Mark N8MH said: >> You may very well be hearing IO-26, ITAMSAT. >> IO-26 is currently in MBL mode transmitting PSK at 435.790 MHz >> If you share a footprint with my station, you might very well be >> hearing some MBL telemetry and/or packets coming from IO-26. > >So, perhaps there might be some motivation to re-connect the old >TAPR-PSK demodulator - that has been keeping dust off the museum shelf. >I was considering hooking it up about the time AO16 went voice. >Using sound card now for so much, the MFJ-1278 doesn't have much to do. > >Any interest in collecting the telemetry ? >Anyone else still have a TAPR-PSK demod hooked up ? >Hummm, wonder if TLMDC still works... > maybe there is a reason all those old floppies are still in a box. > maybe they should stay there . . . > 73 /;^) >-- > <- WB5RMG is Alan Sieg * <http://wb5rmg.somenet.net>http://wb5rmg.somenet.net -> Mark L. Hammond [N8MH]

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RE - TNC3S
by nader omer 19 Feb '08

19 Feb '08

Hi Peter check this links it may help ! http://www.symek.com/g/tnc3update.html http://www.symek.com/g/tnc3s.html 73 Nader-st2nh --------------------------------- Looking for last minute shopping deals? Find them fast with Yahoo! Search.

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Re: Yaesu G-5500 Azimuth Rotator Fluctuation Problem
by Alan P. Biddle 18 Feb '08

18 Feb '08

Gary, Hmmmm. I am not familiar personally with the ARSWIN, other than it has a good rep. So if you see the hunting with the ARSWIN program, then that is the place to solve the problem. It would not be unreasonable for there to be the equivalent dead band adjustment there, as in most such programs, but I would be guessing beyond that. Perhaps someone here has the needed experience. Otherwise, drop a note to Pablo. He has a great record of support. Alan WA4SCA Hi Alan The fluctuations are observed without the tracking program. Are you familiar with ARSWIN interface program? I can see the fluctuation when I am using ARSWIN to calibrate the rotators in particular the Azimuth section. I calibrate and set the minimum and maximum setting for each rotator. It is prevalent during this process. I am using Nova. Where would the dead band be defined in this tracking program? Thank you. I would be so pleased if this is just an adjustment. Gary -------Original Message------- From: Alan P. Biddle <mailto:[email protected]> Date: 2/17/2008 5:12:10 PM To: AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Yaesu G-5500 Azimuth Rotator Fluctuation Problem Gary, There is nothing in the rotator which should normally cause the problem. All tracking programs have a place to set a "dead band" which defines when the antenna is "close enough" to the calculated value. If that dead band is set too narrow, or to zero, the controller is likely to hunt back and forth as you describe. Depending on your array, a window of a few degrees should be fine. Something to test, in any case. Alan WA4SCA _______________________________________________ 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: really strange RX
by Alan Sieg WB5RMG 18 Feb '08

18 Feb '08

Mark N8MH said: > You may very well be hearing IO-26, ITAMSAT. > IO-26 is currently in MBL mode transmitting PSK at 435.790 MHz > If you share a footprint with my station, you might very well be > hearing some MBL telemetry and/or packets coming from IO-26. So, perhaps there might be some motivation to re-connect the old TAPR-PSK demodulator - that has been keeping dust off the museum shelf. I was considering hooking it up about the time AO16 went voice. Using sound card now for so much, the MFJ-1278 doesn't have much to do. Any interest in collecting the telemetry ? Anyone else still have a TAPR-PSK demod hooked up ? Hummm, wonder if TLMDC still works... maybe there is a reason all those old floppies are still in a box. maybe they should stay there . . . 73 /;^) -- <- WB5RMG is Alan Sieg * http://wb5rmg.somenet.net ->

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AO-51 S band - wonderful signals
by Michael Fletcher 18 Feb '08

18 Feb '08

Hi all, really enjoyed copying ao-51 last night on 2.4 GHz, finally realizing the S band TX was actually on. This time I used a helix with a modified California Amplier MMDS converter followed by ye olde FRG 9600 IF receiver. After copying a plethora of European stations during a nice 66 degree elevation pass I also turned my helix to the moon and the radio down to pick up the Japanese Kaguya lunar orbiter that is now beaconing at normal EIRP again. Just great fun, all packed within 20 minutes or so ;-) 73's Michael, OH2AUE

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G-5500 Manual
by TimN5KI 18 Feb '08

18 Feb '08

I downloaded my G-5500 from the Yeasu.com website. Search:G5500 then pick files Hope this helps. Tim N5KI

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Re: rotator
by Gary Schuchardt 18 Feb '08

18 Feb '08

Peter Do you have schematics and part numbers for the G-5500? I assume you are talking about a large wire wound pot inside the actual rotator vs the controller. I was think it might be something in the controller. I hope this is easy to replace. I have never had the G-5500 rotator disassembled. I had to send my EL rotator back to Yaesu 3 times last year. I had some bad experiences. My warrantee ran out about two years ago. I have already spent about half of what a new one cost. Anyway, I can pull the AZ rotator on a warm day and find the wire wound pot that you mentioned. Did you replace the pot and the fluctuations disappeared? I have been checking the dead band settings in the Nova program. Thank you. Gary N0EZH -------Original Message------- From: peter Date: 2/18/2008 2:59:39 AM To: gschuchardt(a)gp.hrcoxmail.com Subject: rotator Gary i have the same problem i think it is the Large wire wound pot on my az rotator and the ele a KR500 will do it some times could be crud on the pot the dead band sounds like a try as well good luck let me know how you go Cheers Peter VK4KHP

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Schematic Henry 3004A
by Farrell Winder 18 Feb '08

18 Feb '08

Have located a schematic and manual on a Henry 2004A/3004A Amplifier. I wish to thank all who may have been searching for the info that I requested. Farrell Winder, W8ZCF, Cincinnati, Ohio

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Re: [amsat-bb] antennas and schedule for AO-7?
by Jesse Morris 18 Feb '08

18 Feb '08

Since the days of RS-10 & 15 I've used a turnstile antenna with pretty good results. This antenna has been mentioned many time here but I have not seen any posts recently. I have also not had much luck without a preamp. 73 de Jess - W4MVB >From: Bill Dzurilla <billdz.geo(a)yahoo.com> >Date: 2008/02/17 Sun PM 05:56:01 CST >To: amsat-bb(a)amsat.org >Subject: [amsat-bb] antennas and schedule for AO-7? >Hi, > >Today I listened for the first time for AO-7. I read >all the info pages about this bird, but did not see >anything about a key question: when is the bird in >mode A and when in mode B? Is there a schedule, or do >we have to listen on both 10m and 2m until we hear the >beacon? > >Anyhow, this morning there was a high pass and I heard >the sat loud and clear in mode A, although it was not >at all busy. Just 2 or 3 stations calling CQ on cw, >no ssb at all. I was able to hear my own ssb signal >on the downlink. > >Was wondering what is a good antenna for receiving the >10m downlink. I have a vertical that usually performs >quite well for regular HF work, but I lost the sat >signal when the bird was still quite high, 25 degrees >or so. This surprised me, as the vertical has a low >angle of radiation. > >Is there any SSB activity on this sat? > >73, Bill NZ5N > > > ____________________________________________________________________________________ >Looking for last minute shopping deals? >Find them fast with Yahoo! Search. http://tools.search.yahoo.com/newsearch/category.php?category=shopping >_______________________________________________ >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: really strange RX
by OZ1MY 18 Feb '08

18 Feb '08

Hi Auke and Mark, I checked 3 passes of IO-26 this morning and it fits very well. I used this setting in the doppler file of SatPC32: IO-26,435789.4,145875,USB,FM,NOR,0,0 Happy hunting and looking forward to more news. 73 OZ1MY Ib ----- Original Message ----- From: "Mark L. Hammond" <n8mh(a)embarqmail.com> To: <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org>; "Auke de Jong, VE6PWN" <sparkycivic(a)shaw.ca> Sent: Monday, February 18, 2008 2:57 AM Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: really strange RX > Hello Auke, > > You may very well be hearing IO-26, ITAMSAT. > > IO-26 is currently in MBL mode transmitting PSK at 435.790 MHz +/- Doppler, so it's quite a bit lower than the published/launch frequency of 435.822. It has drifted a good bit! > > If you share a footprint with my station, you might very well be hearing some MBL telemetry and/or packets coming from IO-26. Keep tuned for more information in the coming weeks :) > > 73, > > Mark N8MH

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Re: antennas and schedule for AO-7?
by w7lrd＠comcast.net 18 Feb '08

18 Feb '08

Hello This post brings up an interesting issue regarding mode A. Back in the day of RS10 & 15, mode A was quite popular. I soon discovered that my 10 meter four element quad, though a hot antenna at 28.4Mhz was lousey at 29.5. In fact it received better off the back for mode A than off the front. After thinking about it, I realized the reflector was acting as a director at 29.5Mhz, and the other two directors were out of the picture. Yes the SWR was high but it was for receiving. I even went to the effort of building a 10 meter loop, "looking" up for high elevation passes. So, for those of us who still play with mode A on AO-7, flip that beam around, you might be surprised! 73 Bob W7LRD Seattle -- "if this were easy, everyone would be doing it" -------------- Original message -------------- From: Bill Dzurilla <billdz.geo(a)yahoo.com> > Hi, > > Today I listened for the first time for AO-7. I read > all the info pages about this bird, but did not see > anything about a key question: when is the bird in > mode A and when in mode B? Is there a schedule, or do > we have to listen on both 10m and 2m until we hear the > beacon? > > Anyhow, this morning there was a high pass and I heard > the sat loud and clear in mode A, although it was not > at all busy. Just 2 or 3 stations calling CQ on cw, > no ssb at all. I was able to hear my own ssb signal > on the downlink. > > Was wondering what is a good antenna for receiving the > 10m downlink. I have a vertical that usually performs > quite well for regular HF work, but I lost the sat > signal when the bird was still quite high, 25 degrees > or so. This surprised me, as the vertical has a low > angle of radiation. > > Is there any SSB activity on this sat? > > 73, Bill NZ5N > > > > ________________________________________________________________________________ > ____ > Looking for last minute shopping deals? > Find them fast with Yahoo! Search. > http://tools.search.yahoo.com/newsearch/category.php?category=shopping > _______________________________________________ > 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: really strange RX
by Mark L. Hammond 18 Feb '08

18 Feb '08

Hello Auke, You may very well be hearing IO-26, ITAMSAT. IO-26 is currently in MBL mode transmitting PSK at 435.790 MHz +/- Doppler, so it's quite a bit lower than the published/launch frequency of 435.822. It has drifted a good bit! If you share a footprint with my station, you might very well be hearing some MBL telemetry and/or packets coming from IO-26. Keep tuned for more information in the coming weeks :) 73, Mark N8MH >Well, I got a chance to listen again and there it was again! I took some >better notes this time and even got a recording. There didn't seem to be >any telemetry frames transmitted, just the steady AFSK carriers. I picked >it up about 1/2 way through the pass. >I am 90% sure that these signals are coming from IO-26. the LOS occured >precisely at 21:05:39UTC Just as IO-26 met my horizon here in DO-33, and the >signal was strongest with my antenna pointed in the direction of that >satellite. All this is according to my Orbitron display. The only problem >is that the frequency is NOT on any list. I worked out the transmitter >frequency to be 435.790MHz, where it was 435.7825 when it disappeared. >FO-12 was also in view at the time, just as it was the first time I heard >this, but it was in the opposite direction from me. LOS happened to occur >at about the same time too, hence my less than 100% sure-ness. FO-12 also >happens to have it's beacon set to a more believable 435.795, but again, the >signal was stronger in the opposite direction from there. One last thing of >note about the reception is that I noticed pronounced fading as if the sat >was spinning, which seemed to mirror how AO-16 fades both in severity, and >rotational frequency. the fades occur about every 10 seconds, for about 1 >second, as observed on my 7 element Sinclair Yagi fixed at horizontal pol >and fixed elevation of 20 Deg. > >Can anyone here offer any help for me to understand these observations? Is >it even possible for a satellite to drift this far off-frequency? Can >anyone else confirm or dis-prove that these are coming from, or very near >IO-26 >IO-26's closest downlink frequency is listed as "Downlink 435.8670 MHz AFSK >1200 BPS" >as seen here on AMSAT's page: ><http://www.amsat.org/amsat-new/satellites/satInfo.php?satID=50&retURL=satel…>http://www.amsat.org/amsat-new/satellites/satInfo.php?satID=50&retURL=satel… > >Thanks, > >73's >Auke de Jong >VE6PWN > > >From: "Auke de Jong, VE6PWN" <sparkycivic(a)shaw.ca> >To: "AMSAT-BB" <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> >Sent: Sunday, February 03, 2008 2:28 PM >Subject: [amsat-bb] really strange RX > > >>I cannot identify what it was that I just heard: >> at 20:55, i was bringing my dial up to try and hear IO-26, but I was >> startled when I came accross another signal several hundred KHz below my >> destination! I stopped to see if it was juse local noise, and found that >> it was indeed LEO in origin. I picked it up at about 435.801MHz while >> rotating the beam from the north to my east. As far as I can tell, there >> is no satellite using a frequency in that range, on the list found on the >> AMSAT website under "Satellite Frequencies". The signal seemed to be >> strongest in the direction of IO26/KO25. judging by the rate of >> doppler-shift it must probably be either one of those satellites. It also >> faded out just before IO26/KO25 were near my horizon, given the inaccuracy >> of my PC clock, they might have been exactly at the horizon. It's been a >> week since I synchronised my clock, it was 4 seconds behind. >> >> The signal sounded exactly like AO-16 MBL mode before they put it in voice >> mode. I think I even heard a packet or some form of data transmitted once >> during this pass. >> >> Is it just a typo where IO26 is actually lower in frequency by about >> 60KHz? Might it somehow have drifted that far down? Or is it another >> satellite altogether? >> >> Auke de Jong >> VE6PWN >> DO33go >> Edmonton, AB >> Mark L. Hammond [N8MH]

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antennas and schedule for AO-7?
by Bill Dzurilla 18 Feb '08

18 Feb '08

Hi, Today I listened for the first time for AO-7. I read all the info pages about this bird, but did not see anything about a key question: when is the bird in mode A and when in mode B? Is there a schedule, or do we have to listen on both 10m and 2m until we hear the beacon? Anyhow, this morning there was a high pass and I heard the sat loud and clear in mode A, although it was not at all busy. Just 2 or 3 stations calling CQ on cw, no ssb at all. I was able to hear my own ssb signal on the downlink. Was wondering what is a good antenna for receiving the 10m downlink. I have a vertical that usually performs quite well for regular HF work, but I lost the sat signal when the bird was still quite high, 25 degrees or so. This surprised me, as the vertical has a low angle of radiation. Is there any SSB activity on this sat? 73, Bill NZ5N ____________________________________________________________________________________ Looking for last minute shopping deals? Find them fast with Yahoo! Search. http://tools.search.yahoo.com/newsearch/category.php?category=shopping

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Re: Press Release - Ozsatgroup and Amsat Australia
by Tony Langdon 18 Feb '08

18 Feb '08

At 10:42 AM 2/18/2008, Paul Paradigm wrote: >In Victoria > >VK3JED Laverton, Melbourne on 144.296MHz SSB simplex >VK3JED Laverton, Melbourne on 439.175MHz FM simplex with a 91.5 Hz CTCSS >tone Slight correction: These are actually in Preston. Also, VK3RTL Laverton, Melbourne, 438.600MHz FM, -5 MHz offset 73 de VK3JED http://vkradio.com

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Press Release - Ozsatgroup and Amsat Australia
by Paul Paradigm 17 Feb '08

17 Feb '08

The Ozsatgroup and Amsat Australia to move to a week night national satellite net. With the aim of improving participation and accessibility, the Australian National Satellite net has been moved from the 2nd Sunday to the 2nd Tuesday of each month. This long running net allows amateur radio operators who are operating or have an interest in working in the satellite mode, to make contact with others in order to share their experiences and to catch up on pertinent news. The net is also a means of making 'skeds' and for a general 'off-bird' chat. The week night net will be held at 8.30pm eastern / 9.30z or 10.30zdepending on daylight savings. For the first time, in addition to our Echolink conference, the net will also be available via RF on the following repeaters and links… In New South Wales VK2RMP Maddens Plains repeater on 146.850MHz VK2RIS Saddleback repeater on 146.975MHz VK2RBT Mt Boyne Repeater on 146.675MHz In Victoria VK3JED Laverton, Melbourne on 144.296MHz SSB simplex VK3JED Laverton, Melbourne on 439.175MHz FM simplex with a 91.5 Hz CTCSS tone In addition to RF, operators may join the net via Echolink by connecting to either the Amsat-NA or VK3JED conferences. The net is also available via IRLP reflector number 9509. The Ozsatgroup and Amsat-VK are also keen to have the net carried by other echolink or IRLP enabled repeaters and links in order to improve RF coverage. If you are interested in carrying our net on your system, please contact Paul via email at vk2txt(a)gmail.com The new week night net commences on the 11th of March 2008. Listeners are also reminded of our HF net which is held on the 2nd Sunday of each month. See www.amsat-vk.org or www.ozsatgroup.info for details. ''''Amsat-VK site to be updated'''' Amateur satellite operations is one of the most interesting and rewarding modes in our hobby. The birds are relatively easy to access and require very little hardware investment to get started. You can gain access to the FM 'repeaters in the sky' with just a dual band handheld operating on 2m and 70cm. These easy-to-use and popular FM satellites will give hams national communications and handheld access into New Zealand at various times through the day and night. Ozsatgroup members can be found operating on most passes on all satellites and will be happy to assist newcomers in any way they can. Finally, the Ozsatgroup and Amsat Australia wish to thank the Illawarra Amateur Radio Society for carrying our net on the Coastlink repeater network and Tony - VK3JED for the use of his linking system. 73's from The Ozsatgroup and Amsat Australia

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really strange RX
by Auke de Jong, VE6PWN 17 Feb '08

17 Feb '08

I cannot identify what it was that I just heard: at 20:55, i was bringing my dial up to try and hear IO-26, but I was startled when I came accross another signal several hundred KHz below my destination! I stopped to see if it was juse local noise, and found that it was indeed LEO in origin. I picked it up at about 435.801MHz while rotating the beam from the north to my east. As far as I can tell, there is no satellite using a frequency in that range, on the list found on the AMSAT website under "Satellite Frequencies". The signal seemed to be strongest in the direction of IO26/KO25. judging by the rate of doppler-shift it must probably be either one of those satellites. It also faded out just before IO26/KO25 were near my horizon, given the inaccuracy of my PC clock, they might have been exactly at the horizon. It's been a week since I synchronised my clock, it was 4 seconds behind. The signal sounded exactly like AO-16 MBL mode before they put it in voice mode. I think I even heard a packet or some form of data transmitted once during this pass. Is it just a typo where IO26 is actually lower in frequency by about 60KHz? Might it somehow have drifted that far down? Or is it another satellite altogether? Auke de Jong VE6PWN DO33go Edmonton, AB

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Yaesu G-5500 Azimuth Rotator Fluctuation Problem
by Gary Schuchardt 17 Feb '08

17 Feb '08

I have a Yaesu G-5500 EL/AZ Rotator and the EA4TX RCI-SE interface board. Presently, I am using Nova tracking and ARS interface software. The elevation rotator moves very smoothly and accurately as it should tracking designated satellites. However, the azimuth rotator fluctuates back and forth within ~2-3 degrees. The fluctuation is very visible on the tower. Has anyone experienced a similar problem with their rotator? This is almost as if there is some type of interference between the rotator controller and the interface. Is there anything within the controller that might cause this problem? Thank you. Gary N0EZH Chesapeake VA

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SatPC CAT error (satIni.sqf-parport.sqf)
by TimN5KI 17 Feb '08

17 Feb '08

When setting up CAT with my FT-847 and SatPC this error came up. This happen when it said to pick a comm port BUT all I have was a LPT1 open. I un-installed the program and the same error. I'm unable to open the software to correct the mistake. Any ideas? Tim N5KI EM65bj

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TNC3S
by Peter Gibson 17 Feb '08

17 Feb '08

Hi I have just bought a SYMEX TNC3S It not been used for a number of years and only came with manuals Anyone got the software disk it came with How do I reset the unit as it set for a very high baud rate 115.000 Peter

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AO-27's Signal as of Late
by John Marranca, Jr 17 Feb '08

17 Feb '08

Happy Saturday, everybody! Before I pull out a ladder, and climb to the roof of my garage to check for any antenna problems, is it just me...or is AO-27's signal degrading? It seems to be in much worse condition than a few months ago. John KB2HSH -- _______________________________ John Marranca, Jr PBX Technician/Shop Steward CWA Local 1122 BN Systems, Inc Orchard Park, NY (716)972-2006

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OSCAR-11 Report
by Clive Wallis 17 Feb '08

17 Feb '08

OSCAR-11 REPORT 17 February 2008 This report covers the period from 21 January to 17 February 2008, overlapping the previous report by a few days, to include the two periods of continuous operation.. The satellite was heard from 22 January to 01 February and from 11 February to 15 February. Signals have been very variable in strength sometimes very strong, sometimes undetectable, even at high elevations. Low signal strength was particularly noticeable at AOS and LOS, and also towards the end of the transmission periods. The transmission period which started on 11 February was prematurely terminated four days later, on 15 February. If the watchdog timer has reset, it should switch-on again around 07 March. There should be a short period of transmissions before permanent eclipses start in mid March. After March it is unlikely that the satellite will support any sustained period of operation, and will only transmit for a short time, possibly less athn a single orbit, every 21 days. The real time clock now serves as a crude indicator of the state of the satellite. Between 22 and 29 January the clock was stable to within two seconds. During the next two days it lost 4.3 hours Between 11 and 15 February the real time clock showed a steady loss of time every orbit. During the four days the clock lost 4.8 hours. When last heard the clock was 82.76424 days slow. I am indebted to Peter ZL3TC, Chris M0DQO, Tobias DG3LV, Edward BX1AD, Mark KU7Z, Gene WA4UKX, SWL Mark in CM87, Ron G4PGY, Julian WB9YIG and John HB2HSH for their reports. Many thanks. The satellite is now in continuous sunlight, and this is expected to continue until mid March, when eclipses will start again. Unfortunately eclipses will then become a permanent feature of the orbit, which is likely to prevent any periods of sustained operation after March. The current status of the satellite, is that all the analogue telemetry channels, 0 to 59 are zero, ie they have failed. The status channels 60 to 67 are still working. The real time clock is showing a large accumulated error, although over short periods timekeeping is accurate to a few seconds per month. The day of the month has a bit stuck at 'one' so the day of the month may show an error of +40 days for some dates. The time display has switched into 12 hour mode. Unfortunately, there is no AM/PM indicator, since the time display format was designed for 24 hour mode. The spacecraft computer and active attitude control system have switched OFF, ie. the satellite' attitude is controlled only by the passive gravity boom gradient, and the satellite is free to spin at any speed. When telemetry was last received it showed that one of the solar arrays had failed, and there was a large unexplained current drain on the main 14 volt bus. After 23 years in orbit the battery has undergone around 100,000 partial charge/discharge cycles, and observations suggest that it cannot power the satellite during eclipses, or sometimes during periods of poor solar attitude. The watchdog timer now operates on a 20 day cycle. The ON/OFF times have tended to be very consistent. The average of many observations show this to be 20.7 days, ie. 10.3 days ON followed by 10.4 days OFF. However, poor solar attitude may result may result in a low 14 volt line supply, which may cause the beacon to switch OFF prematurely, and reset the watchdog timer cycle. When this occurs, the beacon is OFF for 20.7 days. The Beacon frequencies are - VHF 145.826 MHz. AFSK FM ASCII Telemetry UHF 435.025 MHz. OFF S-band 2401.5 MHz. OFF Listeners to OSCAR-11 may be interested in visiting my website. If you need to know what OSCAR-11 should sound like, there is a short audio clip for you to hear. There is an example of the latest telemetry received from the satellite. The website contains an archive of news & telemetry data. It also contains details about using a soundcard or hardware demodulators for data capture. There is software for capturing data, and decoding ASCII telemetry. The URL is www.users.zetnet.co.uk/clivew/ If you place this bulletin on a terrestrial packet network, please use the bulletin identifier $BID:U2RPT142.CWV, to prevent duplication. 73 Clive G3CWV xxxxx(a)amsat.org (please replace xxxxx by g3cwv)

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ESA to support cubesat launch
by G0MRF＠aol.com 17 Feb '08

17 Feb '08

_http://www.esa.int/esaED/SEMSJ8QR4CF_index_0.html_ (http://www.esa.int/esaED/SEMSJ8QR4CF_index_0.html)

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Re: Finally got PCSAT :-)
by Chris Bloy 17 Feb '08

17 Feb '08

Hi Ken, No, I used just the TH-D7 set to 145.825 and set the path to ARISS,WIDE2-2 and use the manual BEACON mode.. It may be ok for your guys in the US as Bon and I discussed a while ago about the amount of traffic here in Europe running high power and beacon to often for the small users like me to get in.. I have tried for months to get my portable packet beaconed.. so good luck.. Chris -----Original Message----- From: "Ken Owen" <n6kth(a)n6kth.com> To: "'Chris Bloy'" <chris(a)photofuture.co.uk> Date: Sat, 16 Feb 2008 22:37:02 -0800 Subject: RE: [amsat-bb] Finally got PCSAT :-) Hi Chris: I have thought about using my D7 for packet, but I do not know where to start. I am currently using an Arrow antenna. Did you interface the D7 with a computer? Thanks, Ken, N6KTH -----Original Message----- From: amsat-bb-bounces(a)amsat.org [mailto:[email protected]] On Behalf Of Chris Bloy Sent: Saturday, February 16, 2008 1:43 AM To: amsat-bb(a)amsat.org Subject: [amsat-bb] Finally got PCSAT :-) Hi all + Bob, Finally got beaconed by PCSAT using my TH-D7 on a early morning pass! Gave me a great joy in seeing my packet after trying for so many passes! M0DQO-8/W3ADO-1*/WIDE2-2/SGATE>UPUPXW>UI,R,F0 (1200 baud): 'wa*l .K\> I also happened to be recording the pass and decoded the packet using MixW afterwards to confirm my packet incase Findu didn't get it... I have checked and my packet is/was in the list :) BTW.. 5 Watts into an Arrow in the back garden.. Thanks, Chris, M0DQO _______________________________________________ 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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SSET trying to work GO-32 on 9600
by ryan woods 17 Feb '08

17 Feb '08

for the uplink you need 145.85 and unproto set to 4aprs v 4xtech I think thats it if i missed any thing some one will pick it up 73 ryan kd8atf ____________________________________________________________________________________ Looking for last minute shopping deals? Find them fast with Yahoo! Search. http://tools.search.yahoo.com/newsearch/category.php?category=shopping

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LunarX
by truckwiz 17 Feb '08

17 Feb '08

Hi, We secured our first sponsor for the LunarX prize; it is CMP the parent company of EE times. In the deal we have a display at the Embedded Systems Conference in San Jose CA about mid April. We will have a 10x10 both and we don't need all that space. If AMSAT is interested in displaying with us, drop me an email. Brian

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sending SSET email with UI-View32 via PCSAT
by Alan Sieg WB5RMG 17 Feb '08

17 Feb '08

Greetings and frustrations - I mean salutations... Somehow I had never before used the email function in UI-View, and have not gotten the right magic so far. I tried it on the local 144.390 network, and it worked as expected. I switch over to 145.825, and as before I see my beacons and status packets, but email don't go. I just enter same boxes as for local, even added 'w3ado-1' in digi box, then tried 'aprs,w3ado-1' in the digi box... Hope I'm overlooking something simple, and another UI-Viewer can shine a light for me. Everything looks proper in the debug window. Thanks /;^) -- <- WB5RMG is Alan Sieg * http://wb5rmg.somenet.net ->

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SSET trying to work GO-32 on 9600
by David Julian 16 Feb '08

16 Feb '08

I'm trying to send a short e-mail message through GO-32 for the SSET without any luck. On the radio side I'm using an FT-847, 30 el crossed ant on 70cm, 20 el crossed on 2m, AZ-EL rotor with no pre-amps and the tracking program is SatPc32. This set-up works fine for FM & SSB voice at about a 15W TX level. For a TNC I'm using an old l.L. Grace DSP-12. Set in UO-22 mode with the following settings: <UO-22 PKT> cmd:Beacon BEAcon is EVERY 12 x 10 seconds <UO-22 PKT> cmd:BT BText is :EMAIL :[email protected] SSET from New burgh, IN <UO-22 PKT> cmd:UN Unprotocol is CQ VIA ARISS I can receive the downlink on 435.225 without any problem. For the uplink I'm on 145.825. The TX deviation has been set to 3kHz on the low and high tones in the calibrate mode. On a seperate monitor I can hear the TX going out on the beacon. My guess is that I don't have the TNC settings correct. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks//Dave WB9YIG --------------------------------- Looking for last minute shopping deals? Find them fast with Yahoo! Search.

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Re: SSET trying to work GO-32 on 9600
by Bob Bruninga 16 Feb '08

16 Feb '08

> I'm trying to send a short e-mail message > through GO-32 for the SSET without any luck. > ... I can receive the downlink on 435.225 > without any problem. For the uplink I'm on > 145.825. I think that's the problem. The uplink for GO-32 is on 145.85 for normal APRS packet(tocall of APRS or APxxxx) and 145.93 for Mic-E formatted position reports with position comment set to Committed or higher (D7 or D700).. Please see details on: http://www.ew.usna.edu/~bruninga/GO32-ops.html And also, be satisfied if you see your email in the downlink, because I dont think we still have enough IGates listening to make sure it gets into the Internet system. Hope that helps. Bob, Wb4APR

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na1ss qsl manager
by francesco messineo 16 Feb '08

16 Feb '08

Hello, are the informations about european qsl manager on the following page correct? http://www.arrl.org/ARISS/ariss-qsl.html I found a different address for F1MOJ on www.qrz.com. Btw, I'm sending a QSL for a 2 years old contact, better late than never I think :-) Thanks and 73 Francesco IZ8DWF

4 3

Re: Since We Are Off Topic Somewhat....
by Tom Clark, K3IO 16 Feb '08

16 Feb '08

Bill Jones asked: > While discussing this topic of orbital decay, I wonder if someone would > comment on the apparent anomoly whereby a sat in leo that encounters drag > actually speeds up (since as it's altitude decreases, the orbital speed > increases), and how this might be a factor in the comparison of the heating > effects on an object that decays gradually from orbit vs an object like the > shuttle that is taken out of orbit by actually reducing it's speed with > thrust. I have my own intuitive theories on this but would like to hear more > informed opinions. What confuses people is that the orbital PERIOD (minutes/orbit) decreases with drag, and hence its reciprocal (measured in units like like orbits/day) increases. As the satellite gives up kinetic energy to heat, it falls into a lower orbit, where it must move faster. The relation is that the square of the period is proportional to the cube of the size of the orbit. All this is is embodied in Kepler's 3rd law (see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kepler%27s_laws_of_planetary_motion) which the Wiki states as: * "The squares <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Square_%28algebra%29> of the orbital periods <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Orbital_period> of planets are directly proportional <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Proportionality_%28mathematics%29> to the cubes <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cube_%28arithmetic%29> of the semi-major axes <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Major_axis> (the "half-length" of the ellipse) of their orbits. This means not only that larger orbits have longer periods, but also that the speed of a planet in a larger orbit is lower than in a smaller orbit." An animated "movie" of Kepler's 3rd law can be seen at http://people.scs.fsu.edu/~dduke/kepler3.html <http://people.scs.fsu.edu/%7Edduke/kepler3.html>. 73, Tom

4 4

UO-11
by Chris Bloy 16 Feb '08

16 Feb '08

Hi Clive, UO-11 not heard on the early morning UK pass, will try again on the evening passes. Thanks, Chris

1 0

Finally got PCSAT :-)
by Chris Bloy 16 Feb '08

16 Feb '08

Hi all + Bob, Finally got beaconed by PCSAT using my TH-D7 on a early morning pass! Gave me a great joy in seeing my packet after trying for so many passes! M0DQO-8/W3ADO-1*/WIDE2-2/SGATE>UPUPXW>UI,R,F0 (1200 baud): 'wa*l .K\> I also happened to be recording the pass and decoded the packet using MixW afterwards to confirm my packet incase Findu didn't get it... I have checked and my packet is/was in the list :) BTW.. 5 Watts into an Arrow in the back garden.. Thanks, Chris, M0DQO

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Satellite Simulated Emergency Test 2
by Robert Bruninga 16 Feb '08

16 Feb '08

Next Satellite Simulated Emergency Test (SSET), 9-18 Feb? PCSAT-1 will enter full sun on 9 Feb and will join ISS on 145.825 as a relay for 1200 baud SSET Emails. GO-32 is also available for 9600 baud Email (if we have sufficient Satgates). See the web page on how to use ANY TNC, and no special software to send an Email: http://www.ew.usna.edu/~bruninga/sset.html That should work well for Packet. Now, for voice... Now that we have AO-16, combined with SO-50 and AO-51 and others for voice, these plus the digital birds give us a total of 36 passes per day opportuntiy for getting a simulated emergency message out via amateur satellite. I think we need to exercise our EmComm capabilities and demonstrate them. I'd like to suggest that we come up with a plan for how best to use our voice birds for this kind of test too. I'd suggest that we come up with NET Control operators who will take checkin's. Check-ins will report these items: TX power, Gain, portable or not, emergency power or not, location. Anyone want to take charge and move out? Bob, WB4APR > -----Original Message----- > From: aprssig-bounces(a)lists.tapr.org > [mailto:[email protected]] On Behalf Of Robert Bruninga > Sent: Friday, November 09, 2007 9:56 PM > To: 'TAPR APRS Mailing List' > Subject: [aprssig] Simulated Emergency Test via Satellite 50% > status report. > > This weekend should be good for getting your Satellite - > Simulated Emergecny Test message through. See > http://www.ew.usna.edu/~bruninga/sset.html. PCSAT is half way > through its 2 week long Fall full-ops period. > > Last weekend, we saw over 75 users per 24 hour period who > exchanged about 250 messages a day plus 23 SSET emails. Then > during the week, this tapered to about 50 a day with 15 more > SSET emails and 3 via ISS. PCSAT is coming up in the late > afternoon now in the Northern Hemisphere. See live user downlink > on http://pcsat.aprs.org . > > It is easy to send a Satelite Emergenncy Email without any > special hardware or software other than a TNC (or soundcard > software). Just set your outoing Email in your Btext and set > BEACON to once a minute. Enable it in the afternoon between > about 1400 to 1800 local standard time in the USA (or 5 to 9 > AM). Set on 145.825 using a digi path of UNPROTO APRS VIA > WIDE2-2 at 1200 baud. > > Or just set your Kenwood D7 or D700 to send the message > automatically from the front panel. > > Check your email after that time period and see if you got the > message. The format is in the above SSET web page. If you've > done it via PCSAT, and or ISS, then try it via GO-32 at 9600 > baud. Though you can do that at your leisure after PCSAT dies > again and GO32 then is the only reliable bird. See > http://www.ew.usna.edu/~bruninga/GO32-ops.html > > Bob, WB4APR > > > > -----Original Message----- > > From: Bob Bruninga [mailto:[email protected]] > > Sent: Sunday, November 04, 2007 10:50 PM > > To: bruninga(a)usna.edu; 'Amsat-BB' > > Subject: RE: [amsat-bb] Simulated Emergency Test via Satellite > > > > Simulated Satellite Emergency Test: > > > > I now see 74 PCSAT-1 users in the last 24 hours on > > http://pcsat.aprs.org > > > > I cannot count up the SSET emails till I get to work on > > Monday, but of those 74 users, 50 of them have sent about > > 822 messages via PCSAT-1 or ANDE or GO32 or maybe even ARISS > > over the weekend (2-4 Nov). > > > > By the way, this is NOT just APRS hardware and software. > > Anyone with a TNC and a radio can send their SSET checkin > > email. Just set your TNC BTEXT as follows: > > > > BT :EMAIL....:[email protected] checking in for SSET!... > > > > Oh, replace the 4 dots after the word EMAIL with four spaces. > > The above format is an APRS message that will get ingested > > into the global APRS system and will get emailed to > > your_EMAIL (or any other email address you specify). > > > > Also set UNPROTO APRS VIA ARISS > > > > Set beacon to once every minute if attended until you see > > success. If unattended, set to once every 5 minutes. > > > > If successful, you will receive that message via your EMAIL. > > This demonstrates your ability to enter a EMAIL and or > > position and or status from anywhere on the planet in case of > > emergency TO any email address.. > > > > Join the SSET (Satellite Simulated Emergency Test)! > > > > WB4APR, Bob > > > > > Having heard no objections to the proposed Satellite > > > Simulated Emergency Test, we are proceeding with > > > the APRS satellite part of the test: > > > http://www.ew.usna.edu/~bruninga/sset.html > > > > > > -----Original Message----- > > > What is needed for this new opportunity is encouraging > > > a mind set... Towards... emeregency preparedness. > > > > > > I am thinking AMSAT (we) need to do more emergency > > > service preparations and tests with our satellites. > > > Not only will that test our capabilities, but we > > > will also need to demonstrate our emergency response > > > capabilities as a group to help sell the new > > > P4 concept to the supporters of this new Geo initiative. > > > > > > Can we work up a SSET, Satellite Simulated Emergency > > > Test? Something AMSAT can do to get this bandwagon > > > rolling. Here's a web page on what I am thinking: > > > > > > http://www.ew.usna.edu/~bruninga/sset.html > > > > > > SATELLITE SIMULATED EMERGENCY TEST: > > > > > > For the APRS satellites, everyone with an APRS station, > > > or D7 or D700 mobile would try to send an EMAIL > > > reporting location and status via satellite from the > > > field. > > > > > > For the PACSAT message birds, similarly send a message > > > reporting status from the field. > > > > > > For the Voice birds, have a net control take check-in > > > status from as many field stations as possible. > > > > > > I hope I'm not not re-inventing someone's wheel. SET > > > was in October and I am not a routine satellite > > > operator, but I do think we need field preparedness. > > > This is not another Field day contest. But this is > > > different. We will have good powerful net controls > > > taking as many low-power check-ins as possible to > > > demonstrate our capability to handle emergency traffic > > > from anywhere. By my count, there is a LEO satellite > > > pass on average at least once an hour most of the day > > > long. Plenty of time during a 2 day test for eveyone > > > to checkin. > > > > > > With PCSAT-1 returning to service for the next two > > > weeks, I would propose to do this during the 2nd week > > > in November. And to schedule it monthly from then on. > > > Sign up net controls for the FM birds, etc... > > > > > > Field Operations IS part of this new P4 opportunity. > > > Lets start exercising... > > > > > > And you can do this all from your mobile without a PC! > > > > > > See my draft web page... > > > http://www.ew.usna.edu/~bruninga/sset.html > > > > > > Bob, WB4APR > > > > > > > > _______________________________________________ > aprssig mailing list > aprssig(a)lists.tapr.org > https://lists.tapr.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/aprssig >

2 2

Schematic wanted on Henry 3004A
by Farrell Winder 16 Feb '08

16 Feb '08

Does anyone have a Henry 3004A Amplifier set up for ATV or EME ? I am looking for a schematic and tuning details. Please reply off line direct to my E-Mail address, fwinder(a)fuse.net. Many thanks, Farrell Winder, W8ZCF, Cincinnati, OH

1 0

Sat Shoot Question
by hobergenix 16 Feb '08

16 Feb '08

I was wondering if this satellite is totally dead. And if its not could commands be sent to the satellite to fire the steering rockets and burn up the fuel? I think I read that its still transmitting a beacon signal and that could be used to help any rocket shot at the satellite to help guide the rocket. I am just wondering if this is nothing more than a big show to say the USA can shoot down satellites like China did? Mike N6IMF

2 2

Navy to shoot down satellite
by Robert Bruninga 15 Feb '08

15 Feb '08

NASA news conference is saying the Navy will try to shoot down the soon to deorbit spy satellite. Should be fun! Bob, WB4APR

7 7

Re: Since We Are Off Topic Somewhat....
by David Barber 15 Feb '08

15 Feb '08

Is it not possible to engineer a craft with a much lower re-entry speed thus reducing friction?

4 3

Since We Are Off Topic Somewhat....
by Joe 15 Feb '08

15 Feb '08

Hi All,, Since we are somewhat off topic for the moment with the conversation about the bird to come down shortly.. Ok, the question is, and i've asked it to several other places, and yet to even get a answer, The question is,,, Space shuttle launches,, starts off at sea level, and in less than ten minutes goes from zero to 17K MPh (or so) And gets to orbital altitude. Time to come down,, the de-orbit burn happens to slow it down just a bit to cause the orbit to more or less decay.. It's at orbital altitude.. and moving at about 17K MPh.. 45 minutes or so later it's back on the ground and moving at zero MPh.. So in actuality it comes down from space even slower than going up. Yes? 45 min vs 10. Ok, same goes with any satellite,, How come, going up,, 0 to 17K MPh through the atmosphere, all is fine.. BUT coming down,, 17K MPh to 0 unless it has protection it will burn up in the atmosphere from friction with the air. why is it different? Joe WB9SBD & NSS

9 11

AO-51 schedule for Feb 2008
by Gould Smith 15 Feb '08

15 Feb '08

Hi Keith, The table schedule does not easily show the dual band operation that we are running. Please see the text description @ http://www.amsat.org/amsat-new/echo/CTNews.php ,although I just noticed that this page is still broken. We are looking for a new web master. AO-51 is in V/US mode except for Tues to Thur when L/US. We haven't seen much activity on the L/US mode and are discussing whether to continue that mode the rest of the month. Standard mode for Feb 2008 145.92 FM up / 435.300 & 2401.2 FM down 73, Gould, WA4SXM ----- Original Message ----- From: "AMSAT Website" <www(a)amsat.org> To: <gouldsmi(a)bellsouth.net> Sent: Monday, February 11, 2008 11:41 AM Subject: Field Operations Question > > This message originated from the AMSAT website > > Sender: Keith Email: n8xd(a)arrl.net > Host: firetest.iti.net > > Subject: Field Operations Question > > Message: > Hi, > I'm having a little trouble finding the AO-51 Schedule for this month. It > doesn't appear to be on the website. Can you help? > Thanks! > --Keith > > (end of message) > > > Problems with this message? Email to w0eec(a)amsat.org

1 0

Since We Are Off Topic Somewhat....
by Alan Sieg WB5RMG 15 Feb '08

15 Feb '08

> Time to come down,, the de-orbit burn happens to slow it down just a bit > to cause the orbit to more or less decay.. I don't think orbital decay would be a good descriptor. Orbiter does the de-orbit burn about half-a-rev away, then a nose dive. The de-orbit burn puts the brakes on big time, then after it turns nose forward, a slight push towards the earth brings it on down fast. An orbital decay is very gradual, and takes many orbits... > So in actuality it comes down from space even slower than going up. > Yes? 45 min vs 10. Right, as others have said - going up through the dense atmosphere is the slowest part of the trip. They even hold back throttle until it has passed maxQ, or maximum dynamic shake, just before passing the 'sound-barrier'. After that, the air is much thinner and with less fuel on board - and the acceleration increases very rapidly. > Ok, same goes with any satellite,, Not really. Launch may be the same - but a de-orbiting satellite can take weeks/months/years of slowing/losing altitude enough to encounter the upper atmosphere. That's when the trouble starts. > coming down,, 17K MPh to 0 unless it has protection > it will burn up in the atmosphere from friction with the air. You hit the nail on the head. Orbiter has protection. Major protection. Reinforced carbon-carbon leading edge treatment on the wings and nose. Ceramic tiles on the belly provide the required capacity to shed all that kinetic energy as heat. The thermal padding over the rest of the orbiter is to protect the vehicle structure from the heat passing by. The shock wave just millimeters out in front of the orbiter is hotter than the surface of the sun... I remember seeing Wayne Hales describing this on NASA-TV after the TPS repair job a few flights back in 2007... De-orbiting satellites have no TPS, and as soon as they encounter atmospheric ionization - it cooks off pretty quickly. Only major chunks survive, and then only as really hot blobs. Think of the bright meteors during a storm like the Leonids - most of those are no bigger than a grain of sand - but come in around 70 km/sec ... It should be interesting to see what the media does with this story. Personally, I suspect the fuel would cook off before impact with some large body of water. But if we let it do that, we couldn't flex THE muscle. It would take to long to program an EKV target model for one of the big mid-course interceptors... so perhaps this approach will score some points. We gotta catch up you know. We've never destroyed a satellite 'on purpose' . . All you gotta do is get right in front of it, and let it hit you. An explosive just adds to the show. Waiting for Atlantis to get back is good idea .!. I think I heard that they did extend joint-ops for one day. Maybe early next week they'll let the Navy have a crack or two at "Shoot-Sat". Thanks (this wasn't supposed to get this long) /;^) -- <- WB5RMG is Alan Sieg * http://wb5rmg.somenet.net ->

2 1

Re: Best coax for 2 meters
by Ken Owen 15 Feb '08

15 Feb '08

Hi folks: I get a lot of questions from folks about the best coax types for weak signal/satellite work. I found a good source for LMR400 (equivalent) which I use for both my two meters and 430 antennas. It's overkill for two meters though, since I have only have about a 50 foot run. I know someone who is planning a run of about 40 feet and he's using a pre-amp at the antenna. What would the group recommend for the two-meter coax? Thanks, N6KTH

2 1

Satellite Shoot Down
by hobergenix 15 Feb '08

15 Feb '08

Maybe they should just farm out the job to the Chineese and get it done for a fraction of the cost and right the first time! Mike N6IMF

2 1

Keplerians receive
by Vincenzo Mone 15 Feb '08

15 Feb '08

Hi to the list, I am having problem receiving the keplerians in from the Amsat mailing list. As I have subscribed for receive the keps, I always get in my mailbox only the amsat format ones. I do not get the 2 lines ones. I have checked in my spam folder but there is no message from amsat in that folder. I have also gone on the spam folder directly from the web but also there, the spam folder is empty. Any ideas please? 73 de Enzo IK8OZV EasyLog 5 BetaTester EasyLog PDA BetaTester WinBollet BetaTester D.C.I. CheckPoint Regione Campania Skype: ik8ozv8520 *************************************** ***** GSM +39 338 9749786 ***** ***** SMS +39 338 9749786 ***** ***** FAX +39 328 7244294 ***** *** 2nd e-mail: vimone(a)tin.it *** ***************************************

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VERY IMPORTANT AMSAT INFO
by Martha 15 Feb '08

15 Feb '08

PLEASE BE ADVISED THAT THE AMSAT STORE IS TEMPORARILY OUT OF SERVICE DUE TO PROBLEMS CAUSED BY OUR SERVICE PROVIDER. WE WILL LET YOU KNOW WHEN IT IS BACK UP. -- 73- Martha

3 2

(no subject)
by Frank H. Bauer 15 Feb '08

15 Feb '08

Joe, You had two questions in your query and I believe that one of them (the heating one) was been answered. Let me answer the second one: >So in actuality it comes down from space even slower than going up. >Yes? 45 min vs 10. The reason it seems to take longer---45 minutes----to come down (as compared to 10 minutes to reach orbit altitude), has to do with simple orbital dynamics. Or de-orbit dynamics in this case. As you know, the Shuttle (or any other vehicle that is purposely deborbited) performs a deorbit burn about half an orbit before landing. This burn actually changes the orbit perigee (lowest point in the orbit) to be well in the Earth's atmosphere. Or at or below ground altitude if enough propellant is available. Remember that the Shuttle orbit period is on the order of 90-100 minutes. So about 45 minutes after the deorbit burn the vehicle reaches perigee, enters an appreciable part of the atmosphere, and either burns up (many small satellites), or has sufficient thermal protection to land on the ground (Shuttle and large, dense pieces of satellites). My team used this technique to successfully deorbit the Compton Gamma Ray Observatory, resulting in a safe splashdown in the Pacific Ocean. We also used this technique in no atmosphere to purposefully crash the Lunar Prospector into the moon at the end of its mission. Once a vehicle starts to hit atmosphere (the mission control guys call this "entry interface") the heating and events to landing occur rather quickly..several minutes. Because as you start to touch the atmosphere, you continue to get deeper into the atmosphere because you are dipping further down to perigee altitude where the drag is much higher than at the entry interface. I hope this helps. 73, Frank Bauer, KA3HDO ------------------------------ Message: 8 Date: Thu, 14 Feb 2008 20:18:15 -0600 From: Joe <nss(a)mwt.net> Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Since We Are Off Topic Somewhat.... To: "Ransom, Kenneth G. (JSC-OC)[BAR]" <kenneth.g.ransom(a)nasa.gov> Cc: AMSAT-BB <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> Message-ID: <47B4F667.7030304(a)mwt.net> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii; format=flowed Does anyone have the actual speeds at each altitude going up vs coming down? I tried to find such a graph, chart, table etc, to no avail, Joe Ransom, Kenneth G. (JSC-OC)[BAR] wrote: >The amount of time spent in the atmosphere at high velocity (I'd have to do some digging to give some real time data but basically it is as follows). > >One the way up, the rocket goes through the 100 km of air during the slower part of the change of velocity and spends very little time in the atmosphere at the higher velocity. > >On the way down, the object starts to encounter the atmosphere at maximum velocity and therefore maximum friction. It will be in the atmosphere for the a much longer period since it comes in a very shallow angle. The object will have that friction nearly the entire trip to the ground even though the drag from the atmosphere will slow the object. > >Kenneth - N5VHO > >________________________________ > >From: amsat-bb-bounces(a)amsat.org on behalf of Joe >Sent: Thu 2/14/2008 5:55 PM >To: 'AMSAT-BB' >Subject: [amsat-bb] Since We Are Off Topic Somewhat.... > > > >Hi All,, > >Since we are somewhat off topic for the moment with the conversation >about the bird to come down shortly.. >Ok, the question is, and I've asked it to several other places, and >yet to even get a answer, > >The question is,,, > >Space shuttle launches,, starts off at sea level, and in less than ten >minutes goes from zero to 17K MPh (or so) And gets to orbital altitude. > >Time to come down,, the de-orbit burn happens to slow it down just a bit >to cause the orbit to more or less decay.. It's at orbital altitude.. >and moving at about 17K MPh.. 45 minutes or so later it's back on the >ground and moving at zero MPh.. > >So in actuality it comes down from space even slower than going up. >Yes? 45 min vs 10. > >Ok, same goes with any satellite,, > >How come, going up,, 0 to 17K MPh through the atmosphere, all is >fine.. BUT > >coming down,, 17K MPh to 0 unless it has protection it will burn up >in the atmosphere from friction with the air. > >why is it different? > >Joe WB9SBD & NSS

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Re: SatPC32 with two Icom radio's...Help!!
by Mark L. Hammond 15 Feb '08

15 Feb '08

Hi Michael, Have you tried to use the auxiliary program found here: "C:\Program Files\SatPC32\TxControllerD\TXController.exe" I've used that to control 2 rigs at the same time...works pretty slick! Maybe you can skin the cat this way instead? Mark >Date: Thu, 14 Feb 2008 16:18:41 -0500 >From: "Michael A. Tondee" <mat_62(a)netcommander.com> >Subject: [amsat-bb] SatPC32 with two Icom radio's...Help!! >To: "Amsat-Bb@Amsat. Org" <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> >Message-ID: <000601c86f4f$2cd38ba0$6500a8c0@w4hij> >Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1" > >Hi, >I'm hoping that someone on the board can help me because I'm having problems trying to get my setup to work. I am now the proud and happy owner of an Icom 820H and an IC706-MKIIG. I have built and tested a CT17 type interface circuit and I have it hooked up and working. The problem I'm having is setting up the dual radio configuration of SatPC32. I've read the help file many times over but I cannot seem to get the radio addresses configured as Erich states. Going by the file I'm assuming the addresses should read $42 $58 in the top address box and $58 $42 in the lower box. Nothing I do will make this happen. If I alter them to that configuration, as soon as I hit the "address ok" button the lower box changes and both both boxes read $42 $58. There is some reference to using the "mode menu" in the file but I can't figure out where it helps. Another question I have is, should the transceive option be turned off on one or both rigs? I've tried every combination I can think of . > This is what I'm trying to accomplish if possible, I want be able to use 2 meters on the 820 as the uplink and 10 meters on the 706 as the downlink. Mode A Oscar 7 in other words. I want to be able to use a 2 meters on the 820 as the uplink and use the 706 in concert with my mode S down converter for my downlink. I'd also like to be able to sometimes use the 820 as a stand alone sat rig without the 706 involved at all. That's the only configuration I can get working at all right now. I hope all of the above makes sense because I must just be totally missing something in the help file and I'm getting frustrated as I'm anxious to be back on the birds. >Tnx for any help and advice anyone can offer, >73, >Michael, W4HIJ > > >------------------------------ > >Message: 11 >Date: Thu, 14 Feb 2008 16:25:01 -0500 >From: "Robert Bruninga" <bruninga(a)usna.edu> >Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Navy to shoot down satellite >To: "'Bruce Robertson'" <ve9qrp(a)gmail.com> >Cc: 'AMSAT-BB' <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> >Message-ID: <02c501c86f50$0e803850$42577a83(a)ewlab.usna.edu> >Content-Type: text/plain; charset="US-ASCII" > >> Some media reports are comparing the US Navy shoot- >> down to the one that China conducted recently.. > >Yes, because the media are clueless and don't take the time to >investigate anything about details. > >> Do you have any knowledge or thoughts you can share? > >Only what was on NASA TV. The diffeences are enormous. > >The chinese satellite debris starting at 800 km will be in orbit >for the next 20 to 100 years during which time all of that >depris will pass through the orbits of thousands of other >satellites as it slowly decays. These thousands of debris from >the Chinese satellite, passing through the orbits of thousands >of satellites will likely result in a few additional collisions >that will in turn endanger additional satellites below them. > >The Navy Shoot down is going to be at about 130 miles, below ALL >other satellites and the ISS and the Shuttle. The majority of >the debris will burn up within the next 2 orbits (6 hours or >so).. But just to be sure, they are going to wait till after >the shuttle lands, because the shuttle does have to fly through >that altitude to get home. > > >Bob > > > >------------------------------ > >Message: 12 >Date: Thu, 14 Feb 2008 13:37:49 -0800 >From: "Jeff Yanko" <wb3jfs(a)cox.net> >Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Shoot Sat - add >To: <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org>, "Clint Bradford" <clintbrad4d(a)earthlink.net> >Message-ID: <000b01c86f51$d87f3ab0$6501a8c0@QUECREEK> >Content-Type: text/plain; format=flowed; charset="Windows-1252"; > reply-type=original > >Is Red Fuming Nitric Acid another name for Hydrazine or are they 2 different >compounds? > >Jeff WB3JFS > > >----- Original Message ----- >From: "Clint Bradford" <clintbrad4d(a)earthlink.net> >To: <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> >Sent: Thursday, February 14, 2008 12:55 PM >Subject: [amsat-bb] Shoot Sat - add > > >The satellite is outfitted with thrusters ? small engines used to >position it in space. They contain the toxic rocket fuel hydrazine, >which can cause harm to anyone who contacts it. Officials have said >there is about 1,000 pounds of propellent on the satellite. > >Known by its military designation US 193, the satellite was launched >in December 2006. It lost power and its central computer failed >almost immediately afterward, leaving it uncontrollable. It carried a >sophisticated and secret imaging sensor. > > >Clint Bradford, K6LCS / KAF3359 >909-241-7666 > > > > >_______________________________________________ >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 > > > > >------------------------------ > >Message: 13 >Date: Thu, 14 Feb 2008 13:37:42 -0800 >From: Clint Bradford <clintbrad4d(a)earthlink.net> >Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Shoot Sat - add >To: "Jeff Yanko" <wb3jfs(a)cox.net> >Cc: amsat-bb(a)amsat.org >Message-ID: <A78A4735-B1C1-4397-A85D-2A8CCF1EF1E2(a)earthlink.net> >Content-Type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII; format=flowed > > >http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hydrazine > >Clint Bradford, K6LCS / KAF3359 >909-241-7666 > > > >On Feb 14, 2008, at 1:37 PM, Jeff Yanko wrote: > >> Is Red Fuming Nitric Acid another name for Hydrazine ... > > > > >------------------------------ > >Message: 14 >Date: Thu, 14 Feb 2008 16:46:38 -0500 >From: "James C. Mankin" <n5x(a)psu.edu> >Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Shoot Sat - add >To: Jeff Yanko <wb3jfs(a)cox.net> >Cc: Clint Bradford <clintbrad4d(a)earthlink.net>, amsat-bb(a)amsat.org >Message-ID: <47B4B6BE.8060704(a)psu.edu> >Content-Type: text/plain; charset=windows-1252; format=flowed > >They are different. Nitric Acid is an oxidizer while Hydrazine (N2H4) >is a fuel or (probably in this case since no fuel >has been mentioned) a monopropellent. > >Jim KB3KJ > >Jeff Yanko wrote: >> Is Red Fuming Nitric Acid another name for Hydrazine or are they 2 different >> compounds? >> >> Jeff WB3JFS >> >> >> ----- Original Message ----- >> From: "Clint Bradford" <clintbrad4d(a)earthlink.net> >> To: <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> >> Sent: Thursday, February 14, 2008 12:55 PM >> Subject: [amsat-bb] Shoot Sat - add >> >> >> The satellite is outfitted with thrusters ? small engines used to >> position it in space. They contain the toxic rocket fuel hydrazine, >> which can cause harm to anyone who contacts it. Officials have said >> there is about 1,000 pounds of propellent on the satellite. >> >> Known by its military designation US 193, the satellite was launched >> in December 2006. It lost power and its central computer failed >> almost immediately afterward, leaving it uncontrollable. It carried a >> sophisticated and secret imaging sensor. >> >> >> Clint Bradford, K6LCS / KAF3359 >> 909-241-7666 >> >> >> >> >> _______________________________________________ >> 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 >> >> >> >> > > > >------------------------------ > >Message: 15 >Date: Thu, 14 Feb 2008 14:03:07 -0800 >From: "Jeff Yanko" <wb3jfs(a)cox.net> >Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Shoot Sat - add >To: "James C. Mankin" <n5x(a)psu.edu> >Cc: Clint Bradford <clintbrad4d(a)earthlink.net>, amsat-bb(a)amsat.org >Message-ID: <000b01c86f55$6178f740$6501a8c0@QUECREEK> >Content-Type: text/plain; format=flowed; charset="Windows-1252"; > reply-type=response > >OK. Just checking up on it. N2H4 doesn't need an oxidizer to function and >can be used as a monopropellant. > >Jeff WB3JFS > > >----- Original Message ----- >From: "James C. Mankin" <n5x(a)psu.edu> >To: "Jeff Yanko" <wb3jfs(a)cox.net> >Cc: <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org>; "Clint Bradford" <clintbrad4d(a)earthlink.net> >Sent: Thursday, February 14, 2008 1:46 PM >Subject: Re: [amsat-bb] Re: Shoot Sat - add > > >They are different. Nitric Acid is an oxidizer while Hydrazine (N2H4) >is a fuel or (probably in this case since no fuel >has been mentioned) a monopropellent. > >Jim KB3KJ > >Jeff Yanko wrote: >> Is Red Fuming Nitric Acid another name for Hydrazine or are they 2 >> different compounds? >> >> Jeff WB3JFS >> >> >> ----- Original Message ----- >> From: "Clint Bradford" <clintbrad4d(a)earthlink.net> >> To: <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> >> Sent: Thursday, February 14, 2008 12:55 PM >> Subject: [amsat-bb] Shoot Sat - add >> >> >> The satellite is outfitted with thrusters ? small engines used to >> position it in space. They contain the toxic rocket fuel hydrazine, >> which can cause harm to anyone who contacts it. Officials have said >> there is about 1,000 pounds of propellent on the satellite. >> >> Known by its military designation US 193, the satellite was launched >> in December 2006. It lost power and its central computer failed >> almost immediately afterward, leaving it uncontrollable. It carried a >> sophisticated and secret imaging sensor. >> >> >> Clint Bradford, K6LCS / KAF3359 >> 909-241-7666 >> >> >> >> >> _______________________________________________ >> 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 >> >> >> >> > > > > > > >------------------------------ > >Message: 16 >Date: Thu, 14 Feb 2008 17:21:40 -0500 (Eastern Standard Time) >From: "Gary Schuchardt" <gschuchardt(a)gp.hrcoxmail.com> >Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: FT-847 Serial Port Communications >To: "Keith N4ZQ" <n4zq(a)netzero.net> >Cc: AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org >Message-ID: <47B4BEF4.000061.02424@EAGLEWINGS> >Content-Type: Text/Plain; charset="iso-8859-1" > >Hi Keith, > >Everything is now working. I have been experimenting with programs >developed by Bob Freeth, G4HFQ at http://WWW.g4hfq.co.UK. This includes the >FTBasicMMO (memory management) and FTBCAT to control all the features of my >FT-847 rig. You can contact Bob, at mailto:[email protected], if you >have any questions and he will respond very quickly to inquiries. I am >pleased with the software, support and pricing too. The other program that >I tested was the FT-847 SuperCat, but price was a little high for me. The >software is compatible to many of types of transceivers; however, I am only >concerned my current rig. I wanted to wait, until I had a chance to test the >programs before I said anything about what software I was using. I went >ahead and paid a very small fee for one of the program and some others were >free. I have about 36 channels already programmed into my rig memory for >regional UHF and VHF repeaters. Now, I am going to store various >operational and semi-operational satellite frequencies into the FT-847 in >some type of efficient arrangement or ordering to save precious time >changing from one to the other. G4HFQ has various programs that look real >interesting after I get my main object done. > >I have installed a new null modem cable and rearrange Com 1 and Com 2 so >that the later can take care of my MixW logging and digital needs. I hope >you find this information helpful. Keep in touch and God Bless. Thanks >again for your help. > >Gary >N0EZH >Chesapeake VA >CEM Retired > >-------Original Message------- > >From: Keith N4ZQ >Date: 2/11/2008 10:44:06 AM >To: gschuchardt(a)gp.hrcoxmail.com >Subject: Re: [amsat-bb] FT-847 Serial Port Communications > >Hey Gary, > >I've been looking for a long time a replacement FT-847 memory management >program ,since I long ago lost one written by a Frenchman called Edit. > >Would you please tell me what program you are using to read and write memory >information to the Yaesu FT-847? > >Glad you got your issue with port communication taken care of. > >TU Keith N4ZQ > > >-- "Gary Schuchardt" <gschuchardt(a)gp.hrcoxmail.com> wrote: > > >I have a problem involving the 9 pin serial port on the back of my FT-847 >Yaesu transceiver. When I try to use a null modem cable between the rig and >my PC on either COM 1 or 2, the rig will not respond to compatible rig >controller (CAT) nor a memory management program. The COM ports have been >tested as well as the use of two different PCs. Neither null modem cable >works. I have tried to use the Menu feature on the FT-847 to match baud rate >between radio and PC COM port. Has anyone had a problem like this with the >Yaesu FT-847? I would appreciate knowing. > >Thank you. > >Gary N0EZH > >_____________________________________________________________ >Discount Online Trading - Click Now! >http://thirdpartyoffers.netzero >net/TGL2221/fc/Ioyw6i4tFWrs5EOdVH0fo99R7R5RKcIKFcFJKwy9HXVCvnsNtYiNh2/ > > > >------------------------------ > >Message: 17 >Date: Thu, 14 Feb 2008 17:32:11 -0500 >From: "John Marranca, Jr" <KB2HSH(a)amsat.org> >Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Best coax for 2 meters >To: amsat-bb(a)amsat.org >Message-ID: > <8edcdb130802141432i351e7e57r52b4edd07b3455b4(a)mail.gmail.com> >Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1 > >Ken... > >I have decent results with RG-6/U. > >It's cheap, it has decent attenuation figures at 144 MHz, and can be bought >at Home Depot. > >And the /U rating means it can be buried. > >I'm sure some will differ with my way of thinking, but I have a flat 1:1 >match on my eggbeaters...and couldn't be happier. (My FT-817ND is happy, >too) > >John KB2HSH > >-- >_______________________________ > > >John Marranca, Jr >PBX Technician/Shop Steward CWA Local 1122 >BN Systems, Inc >Orchard Park, NY >(716)972-2006 > > >------------------------------ > >_______________________________________________ >Sent via amsat-bb(a)amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. >Not an AMSAT member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! >http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb > > >End of AMSAT-BB Digest, Vol 3, Issue 83 >*************************************** Mark L. Hammond [N8MH]

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Schematic wanted on Henry 3004A
by Farrell Winder 15 Feb '08

15 Feb '08

Does anyone have a Henry 3004A Amplifier utilizing an 8938 tube set up for ATV or EME ? I am looking for a schematic and tuning details. Please reply off line direct to my E-Mail address, fwinder(a)fuse.net. Many thanks, Farrell Winder, W8ZCF, Cincinnati, OH

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Re: Errant Spy Satellite
by Clint Bradford 14 Feb '08

14 Feb '08

>>...Navy to shoot down satellite... Project name: Shoot Sat Clint

3 2

Re: Best coax for 2 meters
by John Marranca, Jr 14 Feb '08

14 Feb '08

Ken... I have decent results with RG-6/U. It's cheap, it has decent attenuation figures at 144 MHz, and can be bought at Home Depot. And the /U rating means it can be buried. I'm sure some will differ with my way of thinking, but I have a flat 1:1 match on my eggbeaters...and couldn't be happier. (My FT-817ND is happy, too) John KB2HSH -- _______________________________ John Marranca, Jr PBX Technician/Shop Steward CWA Local 1122 BN Systems, Inc Orchard Park, NY (716)972-2006

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Re: FT-847 Serial Port Communications
by Gary Schuchardt 14 Feb '08

14 Feb '08

Hi Keith, Everything is now working. I have been experimenting with programs developed by Bob Freeth, G4HFQ at http://WWW.g4hfq.co.UK. This includes the FTBasicMMO (memory management) and FTBCAT to control all the features of my FT-847 rig. You can contact Bob, at mailto:[email protected], if you have any questions and he will respond very quickly to inquiries. I am pleased with the software, support and pricing too. The other program that I tested was the FT-847 SuperCat, but price was a little high for me. The software is compatible to many of types of transceivers; however, I am only concerned my current rig. I wanted to wait, until I had a chance to test the programs before I said anything about what software I was using. I went ahead and paid a very small fee for one of the program and some others were free. I have about 36 channels already programmed into my rig memory for regional UHF and VHF repeaters. Now, I am going to store various operational and semi-operational satellite frequencies into the FT-847 in some type of efficient arrangement or ordering to save precious time changing from one to the other. G4HFQ has various programs that look real interesting after I get my main object done. I have installed a new null modem cable and rearrange Com 1 and Com 2 so that the later can take care of my MixW logging and digital needs. I hope you find this information helpful. Keep in touch and God Bless. Thanks again for your help. Gary N0EZH Chesapeake VA CEM Retired -------Original Message------- From: Keith N4ZQ Date: 2/11/2008 10:44:06 AM To: gschuchardt(a)gp.hrcoxmail.com Subject: Re: [amsat-bb] FT-847 Serial Port Communications Hey Gary, I've been looking for a long time a replacement FT-847 memory management program ,since I long ago lost one written by a Frenchman called Edit. Would you please tell me what program you are using to read and write memory information to the Yaesu FT-847? Glad you got your issue with port communication taken care of. TU Keith N4ZQ -- "Gary Schuchardt" <gschuchardt(a)gp.hrcoxmail.com> wrote: I have a problem involving the 9 pin serial port on the back of my FT-847 Yaesu transceiver. When I try to use a null modem cable between the rig and my PC on either COM 1 or 2, the rig will not respond to compatible rig controller (CAT) nor a memory management program. The COM ports have been tested as well as the use of two different PCs. Neither null modem cable works. I have tried to use the Menu feature on the FT-847 to match baud rate between radio and PC COM port. Has anyone had a problem like this with the Yaesu FT-847? I would appreciate knowing. Thank you. Gary N0EZH _____________________________________________________________ Discount Online Trading - Click Now! http://thirdpartyoffers.netzero net/TGL2221/fc/Ioyw6i4tFWrs5EOdVH0fo99R7R5RKcIKFcFJKwy9HXVCvnsNtYiNh2/

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Shoot Sat - add
by Clint Bradford 14 Feb '08

14 Feb '08

The satellite is outfitted with thrusters — small engines used to position it in space. They contain the toxic rocket fuel hydrazine, which can cause harm to anyone who contacts it. Officials have said there is about 1,000 pounds of propellent on the satellite. Known by its military designation US 193, the satellite was launched in December 2006. It lost power and its central computer failed almost immediately afterward, leaving it uncontrollable. It carried a sophisticated and secret imaging sensor. Clint Bradford, K6LCS / KAF3359 909-241-7666

3 4

SatPC32 with two Icom radio's...Help!!
by Michael A. Tondee 14 Feb '08

14 Feb '08

Hi, I'm hoping that someone on the board can help me because I'm having problems trying to get my setup to work. I am now the proud and happy owner of an Icom 820H and an IC706-MKIIG. I have built and tested a CT17 type interface circuit and I have it hooked up and working. The problem I'm having is setting up the dual radio configuration of SatPC32. I've read the help file many times over but I cannot seem to get the radio addresses configured as Erich states. Going by the file I'm assuming the addresses should read $42 $58 in the top address box and $58 $42 in the lower box. Nothing I do will make this happen. If I alter them to that configuration, as soon as I hit the "address ok" button the lower box changes and both both boxes read $42 $58. There is some reference to using the "mode menu" in the file but I can't figure out where it helps. Another question I have is, should the transceive option be turned off on one or both rigs? I've tried every combination I can think of. This is what I'm trying to accomplish if possible, I want be able to use 2 meters on the 820 as the uplink and 10 meters on the 706 as the downlink. Mode A Oscar 7 in other words. I want to be able to use a 2 meters on the 820 as the uplink and use the 706 in concert with my mode S down converter for my downlink. I'd also like to be able to sometimes use the 820 as a stand alone sat rig without the 706 involved at all. That's the only configuration I can get working at all right now. I hope all of the above makes sense because I must just be totally missing something in the help file and I'm getting frustrated as I'm anxious to be back on the birds. Tnx for any help and advice anyone can offer, 73, Michael, W4HIJ

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Shoot Sat - add
by Clint Bradford 14 Feb '08

14 Feb '08

The Pentagon's statement... http://www.defenselink.mil/releases/release.aspx?releaseid=11691 Clint Bradford, K6LCS / KAF3359 909-241-7666

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Shoot Sat - add
by Clint Bradford 14 Feb '08

14 Feb '08

The Navy will use a Standard Missile 3 in an attempt to intercept the satellite just prior to it re-entering Earth's atmosphere. It would be "next to impossible" to hit the satellite after that because of atmospheric disturbances. A second goal is to directly hit the fuel tank in order to minimize the amount of fuel that returns to Earth. Joint Chief of Staff chairman Cartwright also said that if an initial shootdown attempt fails, a decision will be made whether to take a second shot. Clint Bradford, K6LCS / KAF3359 909-241-7666

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Re: [aprssig] More than one PCSAT?
by Robert Bruninga 14 Feb '08

14 Feb '08

> More than one PCSAT? Yes, PCSAT contains two identical redundant transponders. The W3ADO-1 side has uplink and downlink on 145.825. Side B (PCSAT-11) has secret uplink, but a downlink on 144.39 over North America (the continent wide APRS channel). The secret uplink is available for special applications if anyone can think of one. If you see both downlinks on 145.825, then it means the CPU has crashed an has cross connected the transmitters for "redundancy". We must send the command to isolate the two sides or we are wasting DOUBLE power each time it transmits on either side. Actually, PCSAT has a total of FOUR callsigns and FOUR uplink receivers. And FOUR transponders, but the two UHF uplinks at 9600 baud are kept turned off to save power. In fact it is the default ON of these extra two 9600 baud systems that cause PCSAT to be power negative and therefore only be useable twice a year in Full sun. We wont make that mistake again... Bob, WB4APR > -----Original Message----- > From: aprssig-bounces(a)lists.tapr.org > [mailto:[email protected]] On Behalf Of > Francisco Rogerio Fontenele Aragão > Sent: Wednesday, February 13, 2008 5:50 PM > To: aprssig(a)lists.tapr.org > Subject: [aprssig] More than one PCSAT? > > Today PCSAT had a pass over Brasilia from 2207 UTC to 2223 > UTC but Findu showed the following log during the pass: > > > 20080213222151 : > LW5DGM]CQ,W3ADO-1*,qAo,LW4DEM-4:=3801.42S/05734.03W`73' Via > Satelite {UISS50} > 20080213222107 : > W3ADO-1]BEACON,SGATE,qAo,LW4DEM-4:T#128,155,156,065,208,214,00 > 111111,0011,1 > 20080213222022 : LW5DGM]CQ,W3ADO-1*,qAo,LW4DEM-4::EMAIL > :[email protected] > 20080213221938 : LW5DGM]CQ,W3ADO-1*,qAo,LW4DEM-4::LW4DEM > :Hola Jorge Saludos..... > 20080213221908 : W3ADO-1]APRS4,qAo,LW4DEM-4:Default LT4 > 20080213221907 : > W3ADO-1]BEACON,SGATE,qAo,LW4DEM-4:T#126,132,140,143,134,214,00 > 111111,0001,1 > 20080213221900 : > N9FLX]APRX46,N9AMN-2*,WIDE3-2,qAo,WB9TLH-12:;PCSAT-11 > *131309z0000.00N/00000.00W/ > 20080213221847 : W3ADO-1]APRS3,qAo,LW4DEM-4:Default LT3 > 20080213221742 : N9FLX]APRX46,TCPIP*,qAO,WB8NUT:;PCSAT-11 > *131309z0000.00N/00000.00W/ > 20080213221734 : > LW5DGM]CQ,W3ADO-1*,qAo,LW4DEM-4::BLNQSL1/1:W3ADO-1{UISS50} > 20080213221707 : > W3ADO-1]BEACON,SGATE,qAo,LW4DEM-4:T#124,156,157,073,209,214,00 > 111111,0011,1 > 20080213221704 : > LW5DGM]CQ,W3ADO-1*,qAo,LW4DEM-4:=3801.42S/05734.03W`73' Via > Satelite {UISS50} > 20080213221413 : > PCSAT-11]BEACON,SGATE,qAR,KC8OBZ-2:T#587,135,134,096,128,214,0 > 0111111,1110,1 > 20080213221113 : > N9FLX]APRX46,N9AMN-2*,WIDE3-2,qAo,WB9TLH-12:;PCSAT-11 > *131309z0000.00N/00000.00W/ > 20080213221111 : > PCSAT-11]BEACON,SGATE,qAR,KC8OBZ-2:T#586,137,139,138,123,214,0 > 0111111,1101,1 > 20080213220946 : > PCSAT-11]BEACON,SGATE,qAo,9Z4GFB-7:T#594,137,139,138,123,214,0 > 0111111,1101,1 > 20080213220855 : > PCSAT-11]BEACON,SGATE,qAR,KC8OBZ-2:T#585,142,052,095,063,214,0 > 0111111,1100,1 > 20080213220840 : PCSAT-11]APRS4,qAR,KC8OBZ-2::BLN4PCSAT:In > View now. QSY 145.825 for QSO. > 20080213220758 : PCSAT-11]BEACON,SGATE,qAo,WP4YF:]131456z reset wb4apr > > How can one understand the beacons of PCSAT-11 digipeated > by KC8OBZ-2 station? How about the beacons of N9FLX? > > 73, Francisco > PT2TD > Loc GH64bf (Lat 15.76020 S, Lon 47.83656 W) > -- > Francisco Rogerio F. Aragão > >

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(no subject)
by Clint Bradford 14 Feb '08

14 Feb '08

Is everyone satisfied with this exam question? E2A08 What is the primary reason for satellite users to limit their transmit ERP? A. For RF exposure safety B. Because the satellite transmitter output power is limited C. To avoid limiting the signal of the other users D. To avoid interfering with terrestrial QSOs I just find its Answer B "incomplete" ... Clint Bradford, K6LCS / KAF3359 909-241-7666

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Looking forward to a British astronaut
by andy thomas 14 Feb '08

14 Feb '08

story at: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/sci/tech/7244028.stm Not our first cosmonaut or asronaut for that matter. Who was it who said that if we Brits had invented the Walkman it would have been a polished mahogony box with a pair of war surplus headphones from a Lancaster bomber? I look forward to our polished wooden space vehicle with glass portholes and a leather Chesterfield. 73 de andy G0SFJ ___________________________________________________________ Yahoo! Answers - Got a question? Someone out there knows the answer. Try it now. http://uk.answers.yahoo.com/

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Libertad-1
by John Hackett 14 Feb '08

14 Feb '08

Hello folks, Does anyone happen to know the current status of Libertad-1 for APRS?. Yesterday the Amsat status page said ??? ... (unknown). 73 John. <la2qaa(a)amsat.org>

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Re: FCAL & Quakesat
by Mineo Wakita 14 Feb '08

14 Feb '08

We can decode QuakeSat signals as "KISS ON + RESTART" on TNC. But the sigal strength is very weak, so it's difficult to decode. (436.675MHz, 9600bps FSK, KISS) de JE9PEL, Mineo Wakita

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Re: Ham Shacks ?
by Edward Cole 14 Feb '08

14 Feb '08

When I setup my shack in our new home (one of the spare bedrooms), I built new shelves from 3/4-inch plywood to provide enough support. The radios are on a two level shelf while the computers on single level 6-foot long shelf about 8-inches high. I currently have three towers side by side and that is causing a little sag (one of the computers is headed for recycle after I pull the HD and install it in the other old tower (P3-1GHz). The two remaining towers sit either side of a riser support which takes the load. In the old house I used pressboard shelving boards and they did a real "wow"! The old CRT is gone and a 20-inch LCD display replaces it (shared by the two computers using a keyboard/mouse/monitor switch). Having a nice layout makes operating easier. Ed At 04:03 PM 2/13/2008, Dave Guimont wrote: > >The pressboard that most of the less expensive computer "desks/cabinets" use > >will not even hold a monitor on a shelf without warping...I use a computer > >desk for some of my ham stuff and the larger lowband transceivers can't go > >in the middle of the unsupported top shelf without creating a tendency for > >it to bow downward. > > > >If you have real wood...go for it! > >Exactly, Roger, I built my shelves from 3/4 plywood over 20 years >ago, sitting on a 4 X 8 cut out sheet of marine ply, sitting on a >fabricated light weight angle iron steel frame, and it would take >more than any computer or ham radio gear to bow it!! > >And I've used computers sitting alongside the gear for over twenty >years, and have had little interference except for the first two >years or so of computers. > >But I also use the best co-ax available, carefully installed premium >N connectors on everything, and I don't "bundle" the coax to the >outside...I use separate holes for every cable, 3/4 and 1 1/2 PVC, >angled to keep out the rain, and plugged with rags, even tho San >Diego is pretty temperate year around... > >Colder climes may wish to use foam insulation.... > >But I guess HT users wouldn't have to bother like that!! > > > > > > 73, Dave, WB6LLO > dguimon1(a)san.rr.com > > Disagree: I learn.... > > Pulling for P3E... > >_______________________________________________ >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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Ham Shacks ?
by John W Lee 14 Feb '08

14 Feb '08

Hello out there! Anybody ever set up a satellite station or any type ham station in a computer armoire? Seems like it would be swell for limited space areas, etc. What with all the mini-radios, amps, power supplies, etc. these days, it would be pretty feasible and make a nice setup complete with computer, etc. I've been thinking of it but have not taken the plunge yet. (I have LARGE tube type amps, etc), they would not fit and if they did the shelves wouldn't hold them. 73 John K6YK

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Re: Ham Shacks
by Clint Bradford 13 Feb '08

13 Feb '08

>>...ham setup in an amoire... I mis-interpreted this the first time I read it, and my mind screamed out, "Your wife won't like ham equipment in her boudoir!!!" Oh, never mind. Immediate concerns - interference to/from computer and ham radio equipment in such a close proximity. The routing of wires - and tight turns of coax - may be problematic. A ham setup OR a computer setupm individually, GREAT. But use both at the same time in the same cabinet, and you may receive less-than-perfect signal reports. Monitors can be horrible sources of noise.... Clint Bradford, K6LCS 909-241-7666 -------------------------------------- Clint Bradford, K6LCS / KAF3359 909-241-7666 - cell

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Extra Class Question Pool
by Clint Bradford 13 Feb '08

13 Feb '08

Thank you for your help with that proposed Extra Class exam pool question. It will be edited/amended/deleted for the new exam. There's one more I might need to submit to you...more later. Clint Bradford, K6LCS -------------------------------------- Clint Bradford, K6LCS / KAF3359 909-241-7666 - cell

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Houston AMSAT Net
by Bruce 13 Feb '08

13 Feb '08

The Houston AMSAT Net has once again gone through some morphing. After being on the W0KIE Satellite Radio Network from our 121st net using SBS-6 on June 18, 1996 we had to move. The W0KIE Satellite Radio Network was a wonderful long term spot for us. Our 726th net on February 5, 2008 began on our new home, Galaxy-25 and the SkyScanner Satellite Radio Network (SSRN). If you would like to hear us on K-band satellite, you can set your dish and receiver as follows: The Houston AMSAT Net is on the SkyScanner Satellite Radio Network on Galaxy-25 @97° West, Transponder 23 (12115 Vert), Symbol Rate: 22425, APID: 1794 (DVB Free To Air) Our internet audio can now be heard at: RFD1 16k (dialup speed) at http://www.cband.info/rfd1.m3u RFD2 (broadband speed) at http://www.cband.info/rfd2.m3u If you would like to join us on the IRC either during the net or at any other time. The IRC is: irc.dishnuts.net Then join the channel #amsat 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 - Galaxy-25 at 97° West, Transponder 23 (12115 Vert), Symbol Rate: 22425, APID: 1794 (DVB Free To Air) Also streaming MP3 at http://www.amsatnet.com Latest satellite news on the ARRL Audio News http://www.arrl.org

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AO-51 L-band antenna
by Jeff Mock 13 Feb '08

13 Feb '08

What is a good choice for an L-band uplink antenna for AO-51? Is it possible to use an omni antenna or do you need to be able to point at the satellite? thanks, jeff AD6EO

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Gearing Up For World's Largest Rocket Contest
by Eric Rosenberg 13 Feb '08

13 Feb '08

>From Space Daily Express ======================== The students are vying for a total of $60,000 in scholarships and prizes. by Staff Writers Arlington VA (SPX) Feb 13, 2008 Students around the country are testing altimeters and trimming tail fins in anticipation of qualifying for the final round of the Sixth Annual Team America Rocketry Challenge in May. A total of 643 middle and high school teams from 43 states and the District of Columbia have registered for the world's largest rocket contest and are designing and building their vehicles by hand. The contest, aimed at increasing interest in math and science and promoting aerospace careers among young people, will involve approximately 7,000 students from start to finish. The 3- to 15-member teams registered for the contest in November and have until April 7 to successfully launch their model rockets and achieve a score qualifying them for the final competition. This year's challenge is to build and fly a model rocket that reaches 750 feet while remaining aloft for 45 seconds, returning the payload of two raw eggs to the ground unbroken. The students are vying for a total of $60,000 in scholarships and prizes. Lockheed Martin provides $5,000 scholarships to each of the top three teams, and Raytheon sponsors the winning team's trip to the Farnborough International Airshow in July. NASA invites some the top teams to participate in their Student Launch Initiative, an advanced rocketry program. The top 100 teams will convene Saturday, May 17, for the national finals at the Great Meadow in The Plains, Virginia. The public is invited to watch the competition.

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UO-11 switched ON again
by Edward Chuang 13 Feb '08

13 Feb '08

Hi, UO-11 was heard during 11:39 ~ 11:50 UTC (Feb.13,2008), max elev.= 33 deg. QTH = GL:PL04vq The following is a decoded frame: UOSAT-2 0711234070757 000000010001020002030003040004050005060006070007080008090009 100001110000120003130002140005150004160007170006180009190008 20000221000322000023000124000625000726000427000528000A29000B 30000331000232000133000034000735000636000537080438000B39000A 40000441000542000603000744000045000146000247000348000C49000D 50000%51000452000753000654000155000056000357000258000D59000C 60800E615FC1620004633305644402651E0C6627EB67000168000E69000F 73 de Edward / BX1AD -----

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way off topic
by don 13 Feb '08

13 Feb '08

Hello to the list, My thanks to all the respondents to my "last hope" request for info on the MC1460 regulator IC. I have had several "off list " replies all of which were extremely helpful so I would like to thank the folk who have responded and to all the other folk who offered helpful and kind information. The Amsat bb must be the most friendly and helpful BB I belong to, as well as the most technically interesting. I have tried to reply to all the respondents to my original post on an individual basis, if You did not get a reply please accept this message as personal thanks for your help. Don, zl1tho

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AO-51
by Vincenzo Mone 12 Feb '08

12 Feb '08

Hi to the list, I have read in an latest Amsat bulletin that in this week or at the most next week AO-51 will be switched in 430/1200 MHz Phone None PL, Unfortunately I've lost the bulletin. Please anybody can resend me the bulletin or the part of that bulletin when it talks about it? Thanks in advance. 73 de Enzo IK8OZV EasyLog 5 BetaTester EasyLog PDA BetaTester WinBollet BetaTester D.C.I. CheckPoint Regione Campania Skype: ik8ozv8520 *************************************** ***** GSM +39 338 9749786 ***** ***** SMS +39 338 9749786 ***** ***** FAX +39 328 7244294 ***** *** 2nd e-mail: vimone(a)tin.it *** ***************************************

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EZ-Lindenblad
by Mike Miller 12 Feb '08

12 Feb '08

I built the EZ-Lindenblad from the QST article. I have it mounted about 20 feet above the ground. The elevation radiation patten in the article is for 6 feet above the ground. From looking at similar designs at cebik.com it would appear that at 20 feet the elevation pattern breaks up badly. Is there a practical way create an artificial ground to restore the pattern to what it is a 1 wavelength above ground? Mike KC9DOA

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RHCP for P3-E & Eagle?
by Peter Sils 12 Feb '08

12 Feb '08

Hello to the Group, I am considering buying a set of RHCP yagi's (2M and 70CM) and wonder if RHCP will be preferred for TX/RX for P3-E and Eagle. (Due to the cost of the switching arrangement (more than the cost of the antenna) I am forced financially to think just RHCP). Any insight would be appreciated! TNX in advance! 73 Peter KD0AA --------------------------------- Be a better friend, newshound, and know-it-all with Yahoo! Mobile. Try it now.

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Yaesu NC-88 Charger
by Clint Bradford 12 Feb '08

12 Feb '08

Anyone have a spare Yaesu NC-88 120VAC-US wall wart charger for the FT-60R that I can send, say, twenty bucks for via PayPal or money order? Clint Bradford, K6LCS / KAF3359 909-241-7666

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Doppler tuning for linux?
by Bruce Robertson 11 Feb '08

11 Feb '08

Gang: Linux has several tracking programs, including the venerable predict, and it has the hamlib library that abstracts out the control of radios. However, as far as I can tell, there is no doppler tuning glue that does all the heavy lifting done by, e.g., instantune or the SatPC32 code or other DDE-based programs. Is this true? If it is, it seems to me, with the increasing proliferation of embedded linux, that something along these lines could be pretty handy.

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Re: Automatic doppler tracking of DSB
by James Whitfield 11 Feb '08

11 Feb '08

Many thanks to each of you who have replied to my inquiry. VE7LDH: I am curious what got you to thinking about Doppler frequency tracking on the BPSK signals. Did you consider a specific approach on how? Had it occurred to you that it might have application beyond BPSK or AO-16? If you would rather not post the reply, you may contact me directly. KD6OZH: Your reference to pilot carrier technique allowed me to find some interesting web reading, mostly IEEE and patent stuff. QEX had nothing of interest and the AMSAT journal does not seem to be available prior to 1995. Pilot carriers seem to have been proven to be workable, but not advantageous in the long run. I do not have the expertise to demonstrate, but I suspect that a pilot carrier required a minimum power to acquire and maintain lock on the signal and that the more modulation power being sent, the more pilot carrier power needed to maintain the lock. I will comment more below, but with a Costas Loop, the more power in the modulation information, the easier it is to acquire and maintain lock. As a result, a pilot carrier consumes power without benefit, while at the same time, as you suggest, accurate satellite data allows the shift to be predicted. Tuning the radio becomes something that can be learned by the "handy" or built into the radio. From my limited experience it seems intimidating and more than a touch expensive. Nothing suggests that DSB will work, or that it might become popular if it did work. If DSB had ever been considered, it seems to have been cast aside pretty quickly. That may have been due to the double bandwidth of DSB. I was somewhat puzzled that AO-16 had used DSB downlink. I can only assume that the weight penalty for an SSB transmitter was traded for what was intended to be single channel BPSK. If the downlink design had been multiple BPSK, it would have required a more powerful transmitter and DSB bandwidth would have been a bigger problem. KD6BD and ZL1TYF: I am glad that I sparked an exchange of ideas. My first thought concerning CTCSS is that it shouldn't be necessary. The time for the Costas Loop to lock should be no worse than the time for a VOX circuit to key a transmitter. That is an opinion based on faith in the concept and the building skills of someone much better than I. But I suggest that it would do no harm. At least no more harm to the equipment than someone using very long AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHs! between words. The Costas loop would be able to maintain lock. It fact it seems to me that the level of CTCSS should be specifically set low, to barely maintain lock. The engergy to acquire the signal should come from speech, particularly intelligent speech rather than someone whistling into the mike. As for a standardized tone, and again this comes from my personal bias that a tone should not be required to make the system work, I fail to see the purpose of standardizing the tone. The Costas Loop will not care what tone is used. It could even be a BPSK8 signal at 50 Hz with your callsign ID and latitude / longitude co-ordinates. I would not suggest using a 1KHz tone unless you expect everyone listening to have a sharp filter, or just listen to it. Adjust the tone for "minimum lock maintenance signal strength with no audio" to reduce the annoyance. You asked about multiple overlaping uplinks. I am not sure that I understand. If we are talking about AO-16 with an FM uplink, is this really a problem? If this was a translating repeater ( sorry if I used the wrong term, I go back before OSCAR, but I am pretty new to this stuff. It took me several hours to find a clear reference to TCA. Once I did it was obvious that is the point that has zero doppler shift and maximum doppler rate... ) then two signals in the uplink passband would result in two signals in the downlink. With an FM receiver providing audio to a DSB transmitter, you are going to hear what the FM receiver locks onto. If that is one strong signal, or the interference between two weak signals that cannot maintain lock, you are going to get one signal to downlink. Here is a slightly ficticious example: I live in Kansas and tune my FM radio to a frequency unused in the local area, but that is used in both Denver and Dallas. Most of the time, I don't hear any music from the radio. If a meteor streaks over Cheyenne, I hear Denver until the meteor trail fades. If a meteor comes in over Austin, I hear Dallas. If the meteor comes overhead, I hear the overlap of Denver and Dallas which is probably unintelligible. Using the measured downlink Doppler shift to derive the proper uplink shift. By theory, the shift is proportional to frequency. So multiply the downlink shift by the ratio of the uplink frequency to the downlink frequency. For AO-16, it is a waste of effort since the uplink is FM. If on the other hand you had a DSB uplink that you were monitoring to correct your shift through a translating repeater, you would a much more complex situation that would depend not only on the uplink and downlink frequencies, but the inverting or non-inverting type of repeater... The control function math is getting me confused so I think you would need to break the loop somewhere to prevent instability or oscillation. What my years of flight control development tell me is to design the system from the ground up with each transmitter fixed and just compensate at each receiver. If AO-16 is manifesting a residual "pilot carrier" it may be an indication of an imbalance in what I can only presume is a double balanced mixer. On the other hand if the uplink FM receiver does not have the functionality of a squelch, there may be a "real" DSB downlink of the audio received by the uplink. The difference would be obvious to a synchronous detector. Thank you again for your input. James n5gui

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Service Manual
by David Barber 11 Feb '08

11 Feb '08

Anyone have a service manual in pdf or other format for a Marconi Instruments (IFR) 6960B power meter please?

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SAT contacts and eQSL (And LOTW)
by John W Lee 11 Feb '08

11 Feb '08

Hello Jay, I dread getting into this discussion because it will cause an avalanche of e-mail! First of all, E-QSL's don't count for any meaningful awards. Too bad. It would be nice if they did. I still upload my logs every month faithfully year after year. LOTW confirmations DO count for DXCC and WAS. I spent a lot of time figuring out what it took to get satellite QSO's uploaded that actually were correct. I don't know how many log programs actually export all the correct required info for satellite contacts. My program does not, so what I've been doing is this: Exporting the non-satellite contacts and satellite contacts separately. This way I can massage the ADIF file to make the satellite contacts correct for LOTW and E-QSL. Satellite contacts need to have some additional information: 1. The "band" or "freq" should be the UPLINK frequency (your transmit). 2. Then you need "band_rx" <band_rx:4>70CM, for instance. 3. Then you need "sat_name" <sat_name:5>AO-51 for instance. 4. Then you need "prop_mode" <prop_mode:3>SAT for instance Any contacts that match all the correct info will be confirmed as satellite QSO's. These changes in the ADIF file are not hard to do unless you operate on a lot of different satellites then you have to do them in bunches. Recently all of my Sat QSO's are on mode J "V/U" so I just have to do a wholesale "add in" of the "band_rx" and "prop_mode" part on every QSO. When I log the QSO's in the computer I put the sat name in the "comment" field. So when editing I do a wholesale change (search & replace) "comment" to "sat_name". Not a big job, and it makes things work. I've got a few countries confirmed on LOTW for satellite QSO's but I have a feeling there are a lot of folks that uploaded their stuff without the required info, so the confirmations don't happen. And I get a ton of "70CM" and "2M" FM E-QSL's which I know are not right. Also, I went and exported all the AO-40 QSO's, fixed the file up, sent it in to LOTW and don't think I got a single confirmation on any of it. Too bad again! Does this help ? 73, John, K6YK

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Re: AO-51 Fail ????
by gouldsmi＠bellsouth.net 11 Feb '08

11 Feb '08

AO-51 is fine. The repeater was off due to an automatic shut down of the satellite from not receiving a command for a number of days. This was my fault for not increasing the shut down time while I was out of town. Drew, KO4MA turned the transmitters back on and set the power levels and frequencies tonight - Thanks Drew. 73, Gould, WA4SXM -------------- Original message from Dale-KL7XJ <daleh(a)alaska.net>: -------------- > Andrew Glasbrenner wrote: > > The 145.920/435.300 FM repeater is back on as of about 0025Z. I'll get > > S-band restarted next pass. > > > > 73, Drew KO4MA > > > > ----- Original Message ----- > > From: "CE3SOC Raul Romero" > > To: "Amsat-Bb(a)Amsat.Org" > > Sent: Sunday, February 10, 2008 7:14 PM > > Subject: [amsat-bb] AO-51 Fail ???? > > > > > Drew, > Thanks for all you do. Hope it is not a serious event. You folks have > done some great > work with this Satellite. > > 73, Dale KL7XJ > _______________________________________________ > 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: Linear transponder without duplex?
by Anthony Monteiro 11 Feb '08

11 Feb '08

Hi Bill, A more modern version would be SATPC32 available from AMSAT but it will not run on my old 20 mhz 386 laptop! 73, Tony AA2TX At 09:33 PM 2/10/2008, Bill Dzurilla wrote: >Thanks again Tony. These programs look interesting, >even though rather old. I'll check them out, would >like to try VO-52. >73, Bill >--- Anthony Monteiro <aa2tx(a)comcast.net> wrote: > > > At 02:30 PM 2/10/2008, Bill Dzurilla wrote: > > >I know full duplex is the best, but is there a > > >practical way to work VO-52 and other linear > > >transponder birds w/o duplex? > > > > > >73, Bill NZ5N > > > > Hi Bill, > > > > Yes. It is not really all that difficult either. > > I have made contacts on VO-52 and other satellites > > using just an FT-817 and omni antennas and also > > mobile while driving to and from work using an > > FT-100 with an ATAS vertical. > > > > I used an old 386 laptop running InstantTrack and > > InstantTune software to set the radio VFOs. Using > > this software, it is not much different than > > doing regular HF contacts. You just tune with the > > radio dial to find a station or a clear spot and > > then you PTT. The software does all the work of > > setting the VFOs and doppler tracking. > > > > Please feel free to email me if you would like > > more info. > > > > 73, > > Tony AA2TX > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >____________________________________________________________________________________ >Never miss a thing. Make Yahoo your home page. >http://www.yahoo.com/r/hs

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Re: LVB
by gouldsmi＠bellsouth.net 11 Feb '08

11 Feb '08

Hello Ron, I have two of them running on two computers using XP and Win98. THE FTDI drivers are specific to the operating system you are using. I did have to install/uninstall/install the FTDI drivers a couple of times. Others have gotten it the first time. Check out the documents with the FTDI drivers, they are helpful. 73, Gould, WA4SXM -------------- Original message from "Ronald A. Stunden" <ve7yc(a)shaw.ca>: -------------- > Anyone running the Tracker with Satpc32 under USB? or dies anyone > have what the proper TIDI drive is?? Tks ron > > _______________________________________________ > 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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wasamata wit MODE A AO-7
by w7lrd＠comcast.net 11 Feb '08

11 Feb '08

Hello Just finished AOS to LOS CQ'ing on AO-7. Yes it is in mode A with excellent downlink signals. Not as strong as mode B, but very useable. No one to chat with. 73 Bob W7LRD Seattle -- "if this were easy, everyone would be doing it"

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FT-847 Serial Port Communications
by Gary Schuchardt 11 Feb '08

11 Feb '08

I have a problem involving the 9 pin serial port on the back of my FT-847 Yaesu transceiver. When I try to use a null modem cable between the rig and my PC on either COM 1 or 2, the rig will not respond to compatible rig controller (CAT) nor a memory management program. The COM ports have been tested as well as the use of two different PCs. Neither null modem cable works. I have tried to use the Menu feature on the FT-847 to match baud rate between radio and PC COM port. Has anyone had a problem like this with the Yaesu FT-847? I would appreciate knowing. Thank you. Gary N0EZH

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AO-51 Fail ????
by CE3SOC Raul Romero 11 Feb '08

11 Feb '08

Orbit 19009 not heard bird fail ???? 00:10 UTC 435.300 and 435.150 not copy 73 Raul

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Ground plane vs. Eggbeater vs. best omnidirectional antenna?
by Bill Dzurilla 11 Feb '08

11 Feb '08

Hi, Homebrewed a K5OE Eggbeater II and tried it out today, but did not notice much, if any, improvement over the 1/4 wave ground plane I had been using. Both were 30' high, 50' of 9913, no mast-mounted preamp. Can hear AO-51 OK but can barely hear AO-27 with both antennas. Is this as good as it gets with an omnidirectional antenna? Can AO-27 be heard well with the M2 eggbeater? With a mast-mounted pre-amp? Is there a better omni than the eggbeater? I hear AO-27 much better with an HT and an Arrow. 73, Bill NZ5N ____________________________________________________________________________________ Looking for last minute shopping deals? Find them fast with Yahoo! Search. http://tools.search.yahoo.com/newsearch/category.php?category=shopping

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Linear transponder without duplex?
by Bill Dzurilla 11 Feb '08

11 Feb '08

I know full duplex is the best, but is there a practical way to work VO-52 and other linear transponder birds w/o duplex? 73, Bill NZ5N ____________________________________________________________________________________ Be a better friend, newshound, and know-it-all with Yahoo! Mobile. Try it now. http://mobile.yahoo.com/;_ylt=Ahu06i62sR8HDtDypao8Wcj9tAcJ

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LVB
by Ronald A. Stunden 11 Feb '08

11 Feb '08

Anyone running the Tracker with Satpc32 under USB? or dies anyone have what the proper TIDI drive is?? Tks ron

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Re; Listening for AO-51
by Rev. Carl Cook 11 Feb '08

11 Feb '08

Well as the bird went over on its last pass I didn't hear it either. So I am also wondering about that. Thanks and God Bless Rev. Carl Cook N4ERO EM96DV

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Kansas City Tracker Tuner FS at Orlando Hamfest
by RFI-EMI-GUY 10 Feb '08

10 Feb '08

Since this item did not sell on Sunday, I am open to offers from board members before I put it on e-bay. -- 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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NO-44/PCSAT Crash?
by John Marranca, Jr 10 Feb '08

10 Feb '08

It appears as though for the past 3 orbits, PCSAT has crashed...as evidenced by its PCSAT-11 on the downlink. Hopefully she'll be brought back to full health soon. Good Luck Bob! John KB2HSH -- _______________________________ John Marranca, Jr PBX Technician/Shop Steward CWA Local 1122 BN Systems, Inc Orchard Park, NY (716)972-2006

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Listening for AO-51
by Rm2642＠aol.com 10 Feb '08

10 Feb '08

Hi to the Group: Haven't heard AO-51 for the past several passes. The control team news web page is posted with a extract warning "first argument should be an array in /var/www/docs/amsat-new/lib/amsat_sql.php on line 115". Satellite problem? Thanks, Ron n6paa **************Biggest Grammy Award surprises of all time on AOL Music. (http://music.aol.com/grammys/pictures/never-won-a-grammy?NCID=aolcmp0030000… 48)

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Re: "BlueMarble" maps on SatPC32
by Wayne Estes 10 Feb '08

10 Feb '08

The best way to add "Blue Marble" maps to SatPC32 is to download and install the latest version, 12.7. With a single mouse click you can switch between the old political map (showing country boundaries) and the new Physical Map (satellite composite image from NASA's earth observatory). http://www.dk1tb.de/indexeng.htm On the web page you can see screen captures of the Political and Physical maps, for comparison. Be sure to REGISTER your downloaded copy of SatPC32 with AMSAT. All the money goes to support AMSAT programs. Wayne Estes W9AE Oakland, Oregon, USA, CN83ik

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way off topic
by don 10 Feb '08

10 Feb '08

Hi to the list , Does any one have a data sheet or a link to one, for an MC1460 voltage regulator? The voltage regulator board in my krautkramer USIP11 ultrasonic test set has failed and I suspect the above IC but I have no info at all on this IC, an extensive google search has revealed no info. Maybe some one has this info. My motorola data books only go back to 1979, and I think this IC is circa 1970.... The unit was made in 1976 ( and has been extremely reliable...) most of the components in it are from the early '70's. shades of AO7! Any replies off list if you prefer, Thanks Don, ZL1THO

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Ground plane vs. Eggbeater vs. best omnidirectionalantenna?
by Alan Sieg WB5RMG 10 Feb '08

10 Feb '08

Bill said : > Homebrewed a K5OE Eggbeater II and tried it out today, > Is this as good as it gets with an omnidirectional . . . ? I have also recently built EB IIs for 144 and 435. (I actually built them for the recent VHF contest, hoping to also use them for satellite...)(there are not many choices for horizontally polarized, omni-directional antennas - these worked great in contest !! ) My tower has not erected itself after most recent cross-country move, so I have limited choices. Currently these two EB IIs are in the attic. Each one has an ARR 20dB preamp. Last weekend was the first chance I have had to try any satellite, and somehow managed one contact each via ISS cross-band, then AO-16, then AO-51, then on VO-52. I was pleased .!. This with a barefoot FT-736, 60 feet 9913 on each antenna, in the attic. I will be back on VO-52, as I really miss linear transponder/SSB combo. In the early 90's I was fairly active on AO-13, and the Microsats. I had multiple antennae on the Az/El rotor, but without all that now, the EB IIs are a great improvement over 1/4 wave, for me at least. Thanks /;^) -- <- WB5RMG is Alan Sieg * http://wb5rmg.somenet.net ->

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