All phase 3 satellites have had computers onboard the so this is not a new issue. AMSAT-NA tests processors that it uses by irradiating them to prove that they will be reliable in orbit. Also, a series of components connected on a semiconductor die is much more reliable than a series of components connected on a PCB.
73,
John KD6OZH
----- Original Message ----- From: G0MRF@aol.com To: brobertson@mta.ca; amsat-bb@amsat.org Sent: Thursday, September 14, 2006 21:04 UTC Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: The Mode B tradition, was Re: The Eagle has died.
In a message dated 14/09/2006 15:56:15 GMT Standard Time, broberts@mta.ca writes:
73" de
i8CVS Domenico
Happily, two of the three birds you mention above, AO-7 and VO-52, are in exactly the mode that analog Eagle users will be using, U/V. As I understand it, the plan is to have this link working 24/7. (Yes it will primarily use a software-driven transponder, but that will be transparent to the analog user.) In this regard, I can't see how the design team can be accused of unnecessarily innovating.
73, Bruce VE9QRP
Hello Bruce / Dom.
I agree, the UV on Eagle will be apparently analog (ue) to the casual user.
But be aware Bruce that it's not "primarily" a software driven transponder.
It is in fact TOTALLY software driven. There is no linear IF, just DSP in the core. Or from another viewpoint 100,000 single point failures just waiting to happen.
73
David G0MRF _______________________________________________ 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