Five watts is definitely sufficient for the common linear satellites.
There are circumstances when it is nice to have a little more -- maybe 10 watts -- such as on a very low pass from a high location.
But, there are so many who use the 5-watt FT-817ND that you will soon hear a chorus. :)
-- bag
Bryan KL7CN/W6 Location: CM98, usually E-Mail: bryan@KL7CN.net Telephone/SMS: 408-836-7279
On Jun 20, 2018, at 00:18, Ken M va7kbm@outlook.com wrote:
Hello AMSATers,
I’m wondering if 5 watts is generally sufficient RF output to work the common linear satellites using a handheld satellite antenna (Arrow or Elk)?
For example, would an FT-817ND (or the new FT-818) suffice for the uplink radio, or would you need an amplifier with those 5 (6) watt radios, or just a more powerful radio such as the FT-857D?
Thanks & 73, Ken VA7KBM _______________________________________________ Sent via AMSAT-BB@amsat.org. AMSAT-NA makes this open forum available to all interested persons worldwide without requiring membership. Opinions expressed are solely those of the author, and do not reflect the official views of AMSAT-NA. Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! Subscription settings: http://www.amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb