Key the PTT line of your UHF FM transmitter for a CW uplink. Turn the mic gain down or remove the mike all together.
It will chirp a bit, but it can be copied.
20 to 30 years ago, when 2M multimode rigs were not common, Lots of guys made their first Mode A contacts that way.
Most satellite SSB ops will come back to a CW signal.
It is not voice communication, but it will get you on the linear birds, which, in my opinion, opens up a whole new level of satellite ops. And arguably better with more opportunties.
Key the PTT line. It works. - Dr. Megacycle KK6MC/5
On Oct 25, 2006, at 8:37 PM, Tony Langdon wrote:
At 08:24 AM 10/26/2006, you wrote:
Hi Bob
I couldn't agree more. It is very much under utilized down here. Hope to hear VK3JED on VO52 real soon.
Unfortunately, as I mentioned in private email, one big issue for me is the UHF side of the bird. I don't have much in the way of UHF SSB gear, and I have noticed this is quite common, especially outside the major cities. Everyone has HF, and quite a lot of people have 2m SSB, but 70cm SSB starts to get scarce. Most of those who have it these days only have it because they managed to afford one of the newer all band, all mode rigs (FT-847, IC-706IIG, etc). I don't fall into that category, I'm another of the group who have 2m all mode (2 rigs even!), but nothing other than FM on any higher bands. :(
In the country, even UHF FM operators start to become thin on the ground, let alone SSB.
73 de VK3JED http://vkradio.com
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-- James Duffey KK6MC/5 Cedar Crest NM 87008 DM65