Excellent advice Tom. Let me add a few things if you don't mind. If you cannot implement full doppler computer tuning, the next best practice is to tune the higher frequency, in this case the uplink. Use full duplex and the minimum power required. VO-52 is quite sensitive and overloads easily; expect this to be the norm on FD.
Don't forget AO-7. It could be in either Mode U/V (aka Mode B) or Mode V/A (aka Mode A). FO-29 may also be back in time for FD, we just don't know. I expect the majority of points to be made on the transponder satellites; please observe the one QSO per FM repeater rule (1 via AO-27 and SO-50, and 1 each via the L/U and V/U repeaters on AO-51).
For the true diehard satellite operator there is AO-16! The 1200 baud BPSK downlink is easily decoded with MixW soundcard software, and the uplink requires Manchester FSK at 1200 baud. This is the tough part. QSOs can be completed via digipeating through the satellite, but the BBS is non-operative.
GO-32 is a good bet too if the BBS is up and running.
Good Luck on Field Day!
73, Drew KO4MA AMSAT-NA VP Operations
-----Original Message-----
From: Thomas McDaniel tmcdanielsprint@earthlink.net Sent: Jun 3, 2007 8:44 PM To: kc6uqh kc6uqh@cox.net, AMSAT-BB amsat-bb@amsat.org Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: VO-52
Hi Art,
I don't know of a site for this satellite with operating information. However, this is what used to be called a Mode B satellite -- 70 CM LSB uplink and 2 Mtrs USB downlink with a reverse transponder. Because the satellite is in a very low orbit I highly recommend a computer controlled transceiver (FT-847, IC-910, TS-2000 or etc.) and SatPC32 (you can get a free download to test with from Eric's web site: http://www.dk1tb.de/indexeng.htm ). We generally use the "one true rule," that is computer control both up and down link to stay in one spot on the transponder.
For antennas, we will be using RH circular beams and automatic tracking, but I expect you could use an Arrow type antenna with someone manually pointing in the general direction -- turnstiles, egg beaters or other omnis may work ok but I haven't tried them.
Finally, practice before Field Day to "work out the bugs" is highly recommended. :-)
73 Tom n0ntx AMSAT Area Coordinator Colorado Springs, CO
----- Original Message ----- From: "kc6uqh" kc6uqh@cox.net To: "AMSAT-BB" amsat-bb@amsat.org Sent: Sunday, June 03, 2007 12:45 PM Subject: [amsat-bb] VO-52
I am considering using VO-52 for Field Day. Could anyone direct me to a site with operating information, not bragg tapes on this satellite. I found the Indian site but I could not find any real technical information. The AMSAT frequency guide mentions both Indain and Dutch transponders shows only one set of frequencies and no suggestion as to USB tX or RX does indicate U TX and V receive. Uses turnstile antennas, Rh or Lh Circular?
Thanks, Art, KC6UQH _______________________________________________ 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
-- No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.5.472 / Virus Database: 269.8.7/830 - Release Date: 6/3/2007 12:47 PM
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
Hi Drew,
I certainly agree that tuning the higher frequency is best if you can't use computer controlled tuning. I'm glad you pointed that out as there is some contrary information in the latest issue of QST.
Your other comments are also right on the money, and I sure hope they get FO-29 back for Field Day!
73 Tom nontx
----- Original Message ----- From: "Andrew Glasbrenner" glasbrenner@mindspring.com To: "Thomas McDaniel" tmcdanielsprint@earthlink.net; "kc6uqh" kc6uqh@cox.net; "AMSAT-BB" amsat-bb@amsat.org Sent: Sunday, June 03, 2007 7:56 PM Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: VO-52
Excellent advice Tom. Let me add a few things if you don't mind. If you cannot implement full doppler computer tuning, the next best practice is to tune the higher frequency, in this case the uplink. Use full duplex and the minimum power required. VO-52 is quite sensitive and overloads easily; expect this to be the norm on FD.
Don't forget AO-7. It could be in either Mode U/V (aka Mode B) or Mode V/A (aka Mode A). FO-29 may also be back in time for FD, we just don't know. I expect the majority of points to be made on the transponder satellites; please observe the one QSO per FM repeater rule (1 via AO-27 and SO-50, and 1 each via the L/U and V/U repeaters on AO-51).
For the true diehard satellite operator there is AO-16! The 1200 baud BPSK downlink is easily decoded with MixW soundcard software, and the uplink requires Manchester FSK at 1200 baud. This is the tough part. QSOs can be completed via digipeating through the satellite, but the BBS is non-operative.
GO-32 is a good bet too if the BBS is up and running.
Good Luck on Field Day!
73, Drew KO4MA AMSAT-NA VP Operations
-----Original Message-----
From: Thomas McDaniel tmcdanielsprint@earthlink.net Sent: Jun 3, 2007 8:44 PM To: kc6uqh kc6uqh@cox.net, AMSAT-BB amsat-bb@amsat.org Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: VO-52
Hi Art,
I don't know of a site for this satellite with operating information. However, this is what used to be called a Mode B satellite -- 70 CM LSB uplink and 2 Mtrs USB downlink with a reverse transponder. Because the satellite is in a very low orbit I highly recommend a computer controlled transceiver (FT-847, IC-910, TS-2000 or etc.) and SatPC32 (you can get a free download to test with from Eric's web site: http://www.dk1tb.de/indexeng.htm ). We generally use the "one true rule," that is computer control both up and down link to stay in one spot on the transponder.
For antennas, we will be using RH circular beams and automatic tracking, but I expect you could use an Arrow type antenna with someone manually pointing in the general direction -- turnstiles, egg beaters or other omnis may work ok but I haven't tried them.
Finally, practice before Field Day to "work out the bugs" is highly recommended. :-)
73 Tom n0ntx AMSAT Area Coordinator Colorado Springs, CO
----- Original Message ----- From: "kc6uqh" kc6uqh@cox.net To: "AMSAT-BB" amsat-bb@amsat.org Sent: Sunday, June 03, 2007 12:45 PM Subject: [amsat-bb] VO-52
I am considering using VO-52 for Field Day. Could anyone direct me to a site with operating information, not bragg tapes on this satellite. I found the Indian site but I could not find any real technical information. The AMSAT frequency guide mentions both Indain and Dutch transponders shows only one set of frequencies and no suggestion as to USB tX or RX does indicate U TX and V receive. Uses turnstile antennas, Rh or Lh Circular?
Thanks, Art, KC6UQH _______________________________________________ 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
-- No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.5.472 / Virus Database: 269.8.7/830 - Release Date: 6/3/2007 12:47 PM
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
-- No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.5.472 / Virus Database: 269.8.7/830 - Release Date: 6/3/2007 12:47 PM
Thomas, I see where linear polorizartion is recomended for ground station. Also other than minor frequency changes difference in Dutch and Indian transponders in performance and which is likely to be used in orbits over the US?
Thanks, Art ----- Original Message ----- From: "Thomas McDaniel" tmcdanielsprint@earthlink.net To: "Andrew Glasbrenner" glasbrenner@mindspring.com; "kc6uqh" kc6uqh@cox.net; "AMSAT-BB" amsat-bb@amsat.org Sent: Sunday, June 03, 2007 10:18 PM Subject: Re: [amsat-bb] Re: VO-52
Hi Drew,
I certainly agree that tuning the higher frequency is best if you can't use computer controlled tuning. I'm glad you pointed that out as there is some contrary information in the latest issue of QST.
Your other comments are also right on the money, and I sure hope they get FO-29 back for Field Day!
73 Tom nontx
----- Original Message ----- From: "Andrew Glasbrenner" glasbrenner@mindspring.com To: "Thomas McDaniel" tmcdanielsprint@earthlink.net; "kc6uqh" kc6uqh@cox.net; "AMSAT-BB" amsat-bb@amsat.org Sent: Sunday, June 03, 2007 7:56 PM Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: VO-52
Excellent advice Tom. Let me add a few things if you don't mind. If you cannot implement full doppler computer tuning, the next best practice is to tune the higher frequency, in this case the uplink. Use full duplex and the minimum power required. VO-52 is quite sensitive and overloads easily; expect this to be the norm on FD.
Don't forget AO-7. It could be in either Mode U/V (aka Mode B) or Mode V/A (aka Mode A). FO-29 may also be back in time for FD, we just don't know. I expect the majority of points to be made on the transponder satellites; please observe the one QSO per FM repeater rule (1 via AO-27 and SO-50, and 1 each via the L/U and V/U repeaters on AO-51).
For the true diehard satellite operator there is AO-16! The 1200 baud BPSK downlink is easily decoded with MixW soundcard software, and the uplink requires Manchester FSK at 1200 baud. This is the tough part. QSOs can be completed via digipeating through the satellite, but the BBS is non-operative.
GO-32 is a good bet too if the BBS is up and running.
Good Luck on Field Day!
73, Drew KO4MA AMSAT-NA VP Operations
-----Original Message-----
From: Thomas McDaniel tmcdanielsprint@earthlink.net Sent: Jun 3, 2007 8:44 PM To: kc6uqh kc6uqh@cox.net, AMSAT-BB amsat-bb@amsat.org Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: VO-52
Hi Art,
I don't know of a site for this satellite with operating information. However, this is what used to be called a Mode B satellite -- 70 CM LSB uplink and 2 Mtrs USB downlink with a reverse transponder. Because the satellite is in a very low orbit I highly recommend a computer controlled transceiver (FT-847, IC-910, TS-2000 or etc.) and SatPC32 (you can get a free download to test with from Eric's web site: http://www.dk1tb.de/indexeng.htm ). We generally use the "one true rule," that is computer control both up and down link to stay in one spot on the transponder.
For antennas, we will be using RH circular beams and automatic tracking, but I expect you could use an Arrow type antenna with someone manually pointing in the general direction -- turnstiles, egg beaters or other omnis may work ok but I haven't tried them.
Finally, practice before Field Day to "work out the bugs" is highly recommended. :-)
73 Tom n0ntx AMSAT Area Coordinator Colorado Springs, CO
----- Original Message ----- From: "kc6uqh" kc6uqh@cox.net To: "AMSAT-BB" amsat-bb@amsat.org Sent: Sunday, June 03, 2007 12:45 PM Subject: [amsat-bb] VO-52
I am considering using VO-52 for Field Day. Could anyone direct me to a site with operating information, not bragg tapes on this satellite. I found the Indian site but I could not find any real technical information. The AMSAT frequency guide mentions both Indain and Dutch transponders shows only one set of frequencies and no suggestion as to USB tX or RX does indicate U TX and V receive. Uses turnstile antennas, Rh or Lh Circular?
Thanks, Art, KC6UQH _______________________________________________ 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
-- No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.5.472 / Virus Database: 269.8.7/830 - Release Date: 6/3/2007 12:47 PM
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
-- No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.5.472 / Virus Database: 269.8.7/830 - Release Date: 6/3/2007 12:47 PM
Andrew Glasbrenner wrote:
For the true diehard satellite operator there is AO-16! The 1200 baud BPSK downlink is easily decoded with MixW soundcard software, and the uplink requires Manchester FSK at 1200 baud. This is the tough part. QSOs can be completed via digipeating through the satellite, but the BBS is non-operative.
If only 'twere true!
Unfortunately, PacSat too has gone silent.
I was collecting regular telemetry from her strong, reliable signal thru the 2330 pass on May 24 - since then, nothing.
I do, however, have a nearly complete collection of that telemetry for the past several years, but have not yet dived into it to look for any sign of developing problems.
Bob, KC2MHU
Hi guys,
I am looking for a good telescoping mast to mount my Satellite beams on a tool shed. Problem is, I need extra height to clear my house and I'd like to be able to lower it for maintenance. A little more detail on my situation:
I currently have my Satellite beams mounted to my chimney with a standard configuration, ie., Yaesu AZI-ELE rotor with 9 foot fiberglass cross pole and two 20' beams, one for 440 and other for 144. I use a thick wall aluminum mast using a fairly standard chimney brackets. In the recent storms I was reminded of how cheaply houses are built and I simply have not been able to get good purchase into the plywood of the chimney.
I am in the process of building a tool shed on the side of my house and given the proximity to the house, I may not have good access to the chimney, so I want to move it. Problem is, I will need extra height from my tool shed to clear the house.
Any ideas? What I would like is something perhaps 20-25 feet high to clear my house, sturdy enough not to wiggle too much yet something I can lower and be able to work on the antennas. Up to now I had to climb on the roof clinging to the chimney. Not ideal as I get older..!!
Anyone who has a few moments to help me ponder this, I'll send photos.
Michael K3MH http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb
participants (5)
-
Andrew Glasbrenner -
KC2MHU -
kc6uqh -
Michael Hatzakis Jr MD -
Thomas McDaniel