Pat Kilroy wrote:
Hi guys,
We have about three weeks until our local AMSAT meeting and space seminar. Here is my status report.
In case you would be interested, I have a new project in the works that enables a low-cost, accurate computer controlled antenna positioner. This is NOT just another analog computer interface that uses potentiometers inside the rotor --- all control is digital. I'm getting about 1° accuracy in both az & el, and it is quite suitable for small (~1M) dishes and/or small yagis. Not sure of the final costs yet, but a 2-axis rotor system with controller should cost <$250, with all the hard parts purchasable with plastic over the internet.
Also, I think we (N4HY, W2GPS & I) will be in the position to demonstrate a functioning breadboard prototype of the Suitsat-2 SDX transponder on the air. People should be prepared to TX on 70 cm (435.9) & RX on 2M (either 144.35 or 435.90 TBD).
73, Tom