I've done satellite ops both ways, full duplex and "half duplex". For both types of operations, I use the Yaesu FT-60R and it does the job flawlessly. Depending on how crowded the pass is, I'll use one or both of them with my arrow antenna.
Aside from being great for satellites, the FT-60R has survived nearly 4 years of (non-intentional) abuse from me. I've taken it backpacking with Boy Scouts, used it a lot with PSE's and despite everything that it's been though, it functions as if it just came off the production line. It's a very solid radio.
You can get one new for around $185.
73 de KE5GDB
On Sat, Jan 31, 2009 at 10:37 AM, Andrew Glasbrenner < glasbrenner@mindspring.com> wrote:
Unfortunately there are no full duplex HTs left in production. If used is OK, I can recommend the Kenwood D7, Yaesu FT-530 and 470, and Icom W32A. The 530 is my favorite for FM voice due to the subtune feature for the receiver.
As other have said it's not absolutely required to have full duplex, but it is more conducive to being a polite operator, and making more contacts. Consider getting something like the Kenwood F6A to use as the receiver and all around non-satellite use, and then pick up a beater 2m HT for the uplink. You could probably pay for the 2m rig with the money you'll save on a Arrow diplexer!
73, Drew KO4MA
----- Original Message ----- From: "Gordon Bousman" nw7d.ham@gmail.com To: amsat-bb@amsat.org Sent: Saturday, January 31, 2009 10:50 AM Subject: [amsat-bb] Optimum HT for FM satellite use?
I'm getting started in satellite work and interested in purchasing a suitable HT for portable satellite use using an Arrow antenna. Wondering what is considered to be an optimum HT especially considering ease of managing the Doppler shift during a pass. I understand that the HT must be full duplex capable and thus rules out some models.
Thanks, Gordon, NW7D _______________________________________________ Sent via AMSAT-BB@amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite
program!
Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb
Sent via AMSAT-BB@amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb