Dean,
Something else to consider is that the "old" bird swtiched modes in the middle of the pass. I do not have any idea when it switches from Mode B back to Mode A since I am not capable of operating Mode B.
However, I can speak to it switching from Mode A to Mode B in the middle of a pass. I had that happen several times and even in the middle of a QSO. I haven't been on mode A in several weeks due to a new job, but last known it would switch from Mode A to Mode B around 2325z and seemed to be getting a little later ever day.
Scott AA5AM
From: dean@n1ety.com To: amsat-bb@amsat.org Date: Sun, 22 May 2011 09:45:48 -0400 Subject: [amsat-bb] AO7-Excess transmit power
Yesterday I was working/listening and waiting AO7 SSB VHF/UHF, One station was booming in. Call sign intentionally not posted to skip their possible embarrassment. Midway thru the pass the signals went dead. No receive at all. If I recall from reading my theory he was likely hitting bird with 100 watts and used up the batteries in bird. Am I on track? Also, last week I was working a 6 land station who was proudly boasting 100 watts, Yikes, I never use more than 20 watts and my signal makes it no problem.
de n1ety
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