Hi Les,

I have an FCD (not Pro) that I use pretty often for satellites and a TS2000 for the main rig Given that the T and R bands are always different, and given that the TS2000 has separate inputs for U and V bands, I use a coax switch on each antenna (type N for UHF). One output of each coax switch goes to the matching antenna of the TS2000. The other goes to a U/V diplexer (again with N-type connectors). Then this goes into the FCD.

Of course there is some loss, but I have RF-switched preamps out on the antennas so that is less critical.

73,

Burns W2BFJ

Date: Wed, 12 Jun 2013 09:26:39 -0500

From: Les Rayburn [email protected] To: AMSAT Mailing List [email protected] Subject: [amsat-bb] IC-910H Vs. FunCube Dongle Pro Message-ID: [email protected] Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed

I just received my FunCube Dongle Pro in the mails, and am interested in incorporating it into my station for both weak-signal VHF/UHF reception and satellite work. I'd be interested in hearing from others who have already used this nifty device.

My questions are as follows:

1.) What would be the best method for T/R switching with the device and the IC-910H that I'd be using for transmission? Loss with switches and connectors needs to be avoided, but I really don't want to run separate feedlines, etc.

2.) How does the performance of the Dongle Pro compare to that of the IC-910H receiver, especially for satellite work?

3.) Any other caveats that I'm not considering?

I currently use a Flexradio 1500 as my primary IF rig for transverters on 222, 902, and 1296, so I'm familiar with SDR technology. Have also owned an SDR-IQ for several years now. But this will be my first attempt with using an SDR for direct reception of signals above 30 MHz.

--

73,

Les Rayburn, N1LF 121 Mayfair Park Maylene, AL 35114 EM63nf