Andrew,

I have a rather large thread going in the the QRZ satellite forum about my raspi/rtl-sdr sat gate. I am currently using a 3/4w vertical with 4 ground plane radials in my attic, and WITH a cheap VHF tv amp I was averaging about 12 packets a day over the last 18 days (mostly from the ISS, as NO-84 has been inactive for the most part). Last night I disconnected the amp to see if it was actually doing anything, and will be updating the thread as I get more information.

I will say that prior to the 3/4 wave antenna, I was using a 1/4 wave with good results, as well (maybe 75% as good as the 3/4 wave). Also, what I have realized is that while not 100% of my captured packets make it to ariss.net or pcsat.aprs.org (mostly due to being duplicate packets), I DO have evidence of capturing packets that never make it to either of those websites, or even aprs.fi. Can't figure out if it's a problem with the aprs-is system or direwolf.....

--Roy K3RLD

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Date: Tue, 18 Jul 2017 16:50:13 -0400 From: Andrew Northam andrewbnortham@gmail.com To: AMSAT-BB@amsat.org Subject: [amsat-bb] SatGate Antenna Message-ID: <CAOeHS4e16nBVJ8c=zUACPhuMVzMg0cWYuiNZis4Xk1-LGY4UpQ@mail. gmail.com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="UTF-8" I would like to setup an SatGate, I have been running an iGate for a little while, and already have the Pi, TNC, Radio, LMR400...I have read the page ( http://aprs.org/aprs-satellite-igate-antennas.html) about antennas, and they all recommend a large ground plane, however I have a ranch style house, and would like to put the antenna on the peak of my roof on a small mast. What kind of antenna would be best for on the peak of a roof? Would a 3/4 wave monopole work? Or should I look for something with radiators? I have a great view to the North, East and South, but trees to the west from Michigan (EN72ef) Thanks for your help! Andrew/KE8FZT