Michael,
Thanks for your comments. I have an SDRplay RSP2 that I'm using as the receiver component of a full-duplex transceiver that I am putting together. The SDRplay has already been demonstrated by others to be capable of receiving amateur satellite transmissions. I've also researched some of the 'higher quality' RTL-SDR dongles to obtain a lower price-point. Hopefully, when completed, my transceiver will cost significantly less than the $1000 figure I mentioned. I hope to freely share the design to enable others to access the linear satellites for a relatively low cost.
73,
Mac / AE5PH
On 09/10/2017 10:02 PM, MICHAEL WILLIAMS wrote:
I would like to add some comments to Mac's interesting email. As both a CW and SSB op on FO-29, AO7, and the XW birds, I can attest that CW operation is now almost non existent. If I was to guess CW a percentage of total satellite use, it would be less than 2%. At 2%, the CW problems you mention are not a problem. From time to time, there are clearly some issues on the linear satellites. A good example is stations using full Doppler correction colliding with stations under manual control. But in general things roll along pretty well and good satellite operators know how to deal with it. FO-29 is my favorite satellite. It has an excellent receiver and a large footprint. I've QSOed with a station using 50 mW of up link power. With some resourcefulness, I think you could beat the $1000 figure way down. I'd spend $20.00 on a SDR SHARP and see just how well you can hear the linear sats. That would be a good start, and they a fun to play with. All the best in your future satellite opera tions, Mike K9QHO _______________________________________________ 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