Hello All,
The light at the end of the tunnel is getting brighter as I complete my shack renovations. Soon I will be at the all important stage of figuring out the best way to locate radios, computers, logbooks etc.
This brings to mind a couple of questions.
1) Apart from the extra rotator controllers, the computer running a tracking program and the pre-dominance of VHF and UHF radios, are there any other accessories etc that distinguish a satellite operator from a 'normal' operator?
2) Given that you really find out how good you are when the PC crashes halfway during a QSO and you then have to manually operate two radios for Doppler shift and two rotator controllers as well as mic/key, what controls do you operate with each hand? Would a footswitch for PTT be worthwhile?
3) My planned layout is (from left to right): 19" rack holding various bits of equipment that I don't generally need to touch, TS-811 for 70cm, K3 for 2m, rotator control box, and computer. Eventually I will build a switchbox to use one headset between the two radios and place this between them. Though I have a TNC, I rarely do any digital work. Does this seem a logical layout for a right handed person? I will have the luxury of using a larger desk than before and the layout will be more horizontal than vertical.
Contesters spend some effort on the ergonomics of their station. Any advice on how I could get mine right would be appreciated. Thanks in advance.
73 de David VK5DG (who is looking forward to getting back on the air).