Hi AMSATs,

The HAMSAT (Vo-52) has linear transponders, what means that what is comming in also goes out. The only problem might be that the output spectrum is inverted in frequency.

For FM this has no hearable effect, and even the 9k6 packet has no problem with it. On SSB the inversion results in modulation change from e.g USB to LSB.

For D-Star I don't know if it can handle an inverted RF signal. I have been looking for some info but the whole D-star system is not to much transparant. The claim that it can be used with homebrew equipment, but didn't seen any kits yet.

I think it is all commercial monopoly minded. Only hams with the $$$$ will be able to buy it, but have actually no idea what is going oun and comming out of their "black-box".

When we want a digital system I would go for something like CDMA. This system seems to be more ham friendly and can be implemented in a homebrew way. As example look at this link:

http://www.tapr.org/ss_g1pvz.html

Great experiment... this is real ham, even if it is not the FM or SSB we are used to do...

Ham are to explore RF technology, not to only buy and talk... Then you can better use a phone :o)

73 de William ---

____________________________________________________________________________________ Never miss an email again! Yahoo! Toolbar alerts you the instant new Mail arrives. http://tools.search.yahoo.com/toolbar/features/mail/