The default is to use the handheld from the Columbus module. In some cases a mobile rig from the russian segment is used which is much stronger. The orientation of the ISS and the movements of solar panels also make a difference. So normally the same radio/antenna combination as the packet is used, so coverage/signal should be similar.
Which contact are you comparing the signal to (date/time)? What was the max elevation of that contact and what was your max elevation this time?
(There is a plan to replace the faulty mobile rig in the colombus module at some stage)
On 19/02/2016, JoAnne K9JKM joanne.k9jkm@gmail.com wrote:
It sounded to me like the ISS was using the 5 watt Ericsson HT instead of the higher power Kenwood rig. I've noticed that the signal strength varies with the position of the ISS with respect to my station when working packet via their HT. I'm running on a vertical until the weather improves to get my yagi back up.
-- 73 de JoAnne K9JKM k9jkm@amsat.org