[amsat-bb] Antenna Question
Happy Independence Day. Does anyone recognize the following antennas? I purchased them years ago and they were part of a system I never installed. Over the years, one of the elements has been damaged and, even though I can fix it myself, I'd like to know who made these. Doggonit, I cannot upload to my webpage (something else yet to figure out). Suffice it to say, my description may not do the antennas justice. There are two of them, a 2m and 70cm made out of sched 40 PVC. They appear to be a "turnstile" type antenna with two aluminum elements at the top and two at the bottom 90° out of phase from each other (top and bottom). In other words, if looking at a compass, the top two elements would be at N and S, the bottom two at E and W. This is the same on both antennas as they are a matching set. These antennas were in an old QST, but I have since gotten rid of all those magazines and cannot find the article online. Any ideas or suggestions? Tnx, Joel, W4JBB ___ Sent via amsat...@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
[amsat-bb] Re: Antenna Question
That's them. Thanks, George and, David, I got the dog off the webpage. ;) Tnx, Joel, W4JBB George Henry wrote: > Sounds like the "QHTennas", made by N4QH. Reviewed in QST in 2005, then he > stopped producing them just a few months later. > Near as I could figure out, they are a conventional turnstile design, but > with the 2 dipoles separated by the length of the phasing line, and no > reflector. > > George, KA3HSW > > > - Original Message - > From: "Joel Black" > To: > Sent: Saturday, July 04, 2009 9:50 AM > Subject: [amsat-bb] Antenna Question > > > Happy Independence Day. > > Does anyone recognize the following antennas? I purchased them years > ago and they were part of a system I never installed. Over the years, > one of the elements has been damaged and, even though I can fix it > myself, I'd like to know who made these. > > Doggonit, I cannot upload to my webpage (something else yet to figure > out). Suffice it to say, my description may not do the antennas > justice. There are two of them, a 2m and 70cm made out of sched 40 > PVC. They appear to be a "turnstile" type antenna with two aluminum > elements at the top and two at the bottom 90° out of phase from each > other (top and bottom). In other words, if looking at a compass, the > top two elements would be at N and S, the bottom two at E and W. This > is the same on both antennas as they are a matching set. > > These antennas were in an old QST, but I have since gotten rid of all > those magazines and cannot find the article online. Any ideas or > suggestions? > > Tnx, > Joel, W4JBB > > > ___ > Sent via amsat...@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...@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
[amsat-bb] Re: broken links
I first started in amateur satellites back in the late '90's (I am just now getting my station back in working order after a long hiatus). You should have seen the webpage then. Today's is leaps and bounds ahead of the old one. As a matter-of-fact, I think you can peruse the old webpage here: http://www.amsat.org/amsat/AmsatHomeOld.html. I got lots more information from the BB and from ANS. I would look at the ANS and figure out what birds I wanted to work, then I would go to the BB and ask questions. I also found that I learned a lot more if I just investigated for myself on a lot of stuff. I read articles in QST and the AMSAT Journal. Wow, there is still a plethora of information available. You can even go to the archived BB articles on the old webpage (maybe the new one too, I didn't dig that deeply). I would be more than happy to Elmer someone in the West Alabama area or even via email, but I'm afraid I may have as many questions as the person I'm Elmering. When I got started there was a guy here who was willing to Elmer me, but I wanted to "do it myself." Granted, not everyone wants to "do it myself." Someone mentioned starting an AMSAT wiki. I think that would be a great idea, but I am not sure how to go about starting something like that. However, I'd be willing to contribute to something like that. Short version, information is still out there, you just have to be willing to dig through the gorilla dust to get to it. 73, Joel, W4JBB On Tue, Sep 8, 2009 at 5:52 PM, Glen Zook wrote: > The problem is that the volunteer function on the website hasn't been > working for some time. > > I tried several times to volunteer in areas that I have expertise and the > system would not take the information. Finally, I gave up. > > Glen, K9STH > AMSAT 239/LM 463 > > Website: http://k9sth.com > > > --- On Tue, 9/8/09, Andrew Glasbrenner wrote: > > So who among you would like to volunteer to rewrite some of the articles > and bring them up to date? > > > > ___ > Sent via amsat...@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 > -- Joel Black jbblack(at)charter.net http://www.upromise.com/guest/2128348014 ___ Sent via amsat...@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
[amsat-bb] Re: broken links
Alan, Not sure what I can do, but I'll give a hand where I can. 73, Joel/W4JBB On Tue, Sep 8, 2009 at 6:38 PM, Alan VE4YZ wrote: > > IMHO fixing the existing site is not the answer. > > If the executives will okay the use of a Wiki format, I am sure that 3 or 4 > of us can communicate off list to set up a group to install and administer > a > Wiki on another server. > > We can call it The SIG ( Satellite Interest Group ) or whatever for now. > Any and All AMSAT members can then be registered to maintain the Wiki. If > the members and executive like the results it can be migrated to the AMSAT > server. It must include RSS, news feeds, and a forum in addition to all > the > stuff ( current or otherwise ) on the existing AMSAT site. > > The cost to this 3 or 4 person ( or more ) "steering committee" would be > the > registration of a name and a year on a web hosting service such as GoDaddy > what runs a similar server a AMSAT's host. Or, use the AMSAT hosting > company. So this small group would have to come up with less than one > year's AMSAT membership to start this project. > > We use an Open Source Wiki, no more customized PHP like the current site > that is high maintenance and really hard for anyone to get into the head of > any former code whacker to modify or update. > > We need the AMSAT exec okay because there would be a lot of cut 'n paste of > old stuff from the existing site into the pilot project where is would be > available for updating a la Wiki. > > I don't do this for a living, I do maintain a couple of club web sites, but > I bet we have a member reading this who is a professional web-whacker who > might oversee the team and keep us from making dumb decisions such as > choosing the wrong open source wiki to being with. > > That's my 2 cents and just one warm body being offered for the effort. > > 73, Alan VE4YZ > EN19kv > AMSAT LM 2352 > http://www.wincube.ca > > > > > --- On Tue, 9/8/09, Andrew Glasbrenner wrote: > > So who among you would like to volunteer to rewrite some of the articles > and > bring them up to date? > > > > ___ > Sent via amsat...@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...@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 > -- Joel Black jbblack(at)charter.net http://www.upromise.com/guest/2128348014 ___ Sent via amsat...@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
[amsat-bb] Re: broken links
Another two sites I really like reading on a daily basis are www.slashdot.org and www.lifehacker.com. What do y'all think. I agree with Bill, it should be a community effort in case folks get burned out or become unavailable. 73, Joel/W4JBB On Tue, Sep 8, 2009 at 6:12 PM, Bill Ress wrote: > Hi David.Good suggestion but the same old problem. Whose going to do > it??? > > Your Board knows the web site needs fixing . . . but whose going to > volunteer to do the fixing. It was set up by volunteers who are no > longer around to fix it. > > We sure hear about the problems, and the web site has its share. All > these great solutions but no one willing to part of those solutions. But > then, it's so much easier to point out the problems than it is to try > and fix then. > > Now I understand it can be hard to find technical talent to volunteer to > build a satellite but you would think it would be a whole lot easier to > find a volunteer(s) that can handle web site management. But alas...it > is not to be. > > Oh well, lets keep hitting the Board up side the head, like that will > surely solve the problem. > > Any of this sinking in out there? You can bitch about the broken web > site all you want but until we get a volunteer(s) to do the bloody > work... well you know the story. > > Here's a crazy idea. How about you folks putting a "team" together to > share the work so that one person isn't overwhelmed with a commitment to > fix the problem. Aah - who am I kidding. They'll be no response to that > either. > > Regards...Bill - N6GHz > > David Bate wrote: > > How about setting up a wiki style setup and have everyone contribute > > updates and so on. So no one person is tied down doing all the updates. > > > > On Tue, 08 Sep 2009 17:39:48 -0400, Tim - N3TL > wrote: > > > >> John and all, > >> > >> No disrespect intended to anyone - but I found myself exactly in the > >> place you described in June of last year. The AMSAT Web site helped me > >> way more than it hindered me. I dare say anyone who knows how to use > >> Google or any search engine will find many sources of (likely) way > more > >> information than he or she will ever need to start working the > >> satellites. > >> > >> None of this is to suggest that so many bad/out-of-date links is a > good > >> thing. I second Drew's response - who would like to step up and > >> volunteer to help improve the organization and its Web site? > >> > >> 73 to all, > >> > >> Tim - N3TL > > > > > David Bate wrote: > > How about setting up a wiki style setup and have everyone contribute > > updates and so on. So no one person is tied down doing all the updates. > > > > On Tue, 08 Sep 2009 17:39:48 -0400, Tim - N3TL > wrote: > > > >> John and all, > >> > >> No disrespect intended to anyone - but I found myself exactly in the > >> place you described in June of last year. The AMSAT Web site helped me > >> way more than it hindered me. I dare say anyone who knows how to use > >> Google or any search engine will find many sources of (likely) way more > >> information than he or she will ever need to start working the > >> satellites. > >> > >> None of this is to suggest that so many bad/out-of-date links is a good > >> thing. I second Drew's response - who would like to step up and > >> volunteer to help improve the organization and its Web site? > >> > >> 73 to all, > >> > >> Tim - N3TL > > > ___ > Sent via amsat...@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 > -- Joel Black jbblack(at)charter.net http://www.upromise.com/guest/2128348014 ___ Sent via amsat...@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
[amsat-bb] Re: K5OE's Eggbeater antenna's
Here you go: http://www.furrballs.net/kd5rxp/K5OE,%20Eggbeater%20II%20Antenna.htm Jerry Felts wrote: > Does anyone have the plans to build a K5OE Potatoe Masher 2?? His > website is no longer online. Just wondering and hoping someone saved > the plans. > > ___ Sent via amsat...@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
[amsat-bb] Re: Help
Jack, As far as adding new satellites in SatPC32, you must go into Doppler.sqf which is accessible from the "?" menu. Opening the file, you will see several satellites already loaded. Read the instructions in the file on adding a new satellite. It is fairly straight-forward. Remember to save the file and shut-down and restart SatPC32 to make sure your changes are saved. Sorry, I don't have an answer for your second question. 73, Joel, W4JBB Jack Barbera wrote: > Being some what new to amsat need a little help. When new SATS are placed in > operation how are these loaded into SATPC32 program for tracking such as > Sumbandilsat? > Is there an easy way to switch from SATPC32 to SATPC32 ISS with out shutting > down one to go to the other? > Thanks for any help. > Jack WA1ZDV > ___ > Sent via amsat...@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...@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
[amsat-bb] Re: Solar Power (I was wrong)
My simple math says it'll take almost 16 years to be reimbursed on a $30k system. Initial outlay: $30,000 US tax credit: 5% (I guessed, I have no idea so this number could be high or low) US reimbursement: $1500 (this is not real money, but a reduction in taxable income) Total: $28,500 (realizing you *still* paid $30k out-of-pocket and only saw a $1500 savings in taxable income) Savings per year: $1800 (someone posted earlier that their friend realized a savings of ~$150 / month) $30k / 1.8k = 15.83 years One of the points of the post, I think, was to make ourselves less dependent on foreign oil, not, necessarily a savings in utility costs for the household. The other point was to build and experiment. So, if you want to build it and try it out, do so. Personally, I do not think PV cells are that efficient. To get the 12VDC I need to power my remote, low-powered SCADA repeaters, I have to install PV cells that generate about 19 - 20 VDC and run them through charge controllers. I've just lost more than 30% in generated electricity to heat. I suppose I could investigate and have the company purchase more efficient PV cells, but I've been told numerous times, "That's not your job." Now, if someone could tell me how to do it more efficiently, I'm all ears. 73, Joel, W4JBB Jeff Yanko wrote: > Hi Pete, > > FB on friends and their systems. What will happen is since each state has > its own PUC, Public Utility Commission, and laws there will be 50 different > ways of handling how to reimburse, tax or otherwise garnish money from this > process. > > I've also been wondering. Since a basic grid-tie system can cost from > $15,000 to $25,000, they only last so long. Twenty years, tops maybe? Do > they really pay for themselves, even wth tax credits, when you have to > replace them in say twenty years? > > > 73, > > Jeff WB3JFS > - Original Message - > From: Pete Rowe > To: bruni...@usna.edu ; amsat-bb@amsat.org ; Jeff Yanko > Sent: Thursday, October 01, 2009 6:46 PM > Subject: Re: [amsat-bb] Re: Solar Power (I was wrong) > > > I've recently looked into PV home installations in California. > Unfortunately, here at least, the power company is only required to pay you > the WHOLESALE cost of electricity. This amounts to 3 to 4 cents per kw-hr. > Hence, most folks size their PV system to exactly meet their needs. I have > three friends who have had systems running for 3 years. You get credits from > the power company for the power you generated during the year. Then they even > up at the end of the year. If you made more electricity than you used, you > lose it. If you made less, then you owe them the difference. Since they have > sized the systems correctly, they owe very little money. > One of my friends installed a water spray system to cool the panels > since they lose efficiency fast as the temperature goes up. Also, it doesn't > take much dust or bird poop to cut the efficiency. So if you install a > system, be prepared to get on the roof every month or so to clean the panels. > > Regards, > Pete > WA6WOA > > --- On Thu, 10/1/09, Jeff Yanko wrote: > > > From: Jeff Yanko > Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Solar Power (I was wrong) > To: bruni...@usna.edu, amsat-bb@amsat.org > Date: Thursday, October 1, 2009, 6:04 PM > > > Interesting topic. Here in the desert, Las Vegas, NV, I've seen a > few homes > with solar panels on their roofs. Not a lot but a few here and > there. > Actually, I see more with roof heating systems for the pools than > anything > else. However, I'm sure there are more out there than I'm seeing. > In any > case, a topic has risen about generating and selling power back to > the > utility company.taxes. Some states are now implementing taxes > on > residential owners who generate and "sell back" their power to the > utility > company. Pennsylvania happens to be one of them. I believe the > standing is > if you sell back over 50,000 watts of power you will incur > additional taxes, > adding to your state personal income tax. Apparantly, after 50,000 > watts > your considered a "generating" or "generator" entity and are > subject to tax. > Lets say you were able to generate and sell back 100,000 watts to > the > utility company. The first 50,000 watts would be "free". From > then on out, > it's taxed. Not sure what rate they are or would be applying but > lets say > 15 cents per KW. At 50,000 watts that would be $7.50. Doesn't > sound like > much, then again 15 cents per KW is probably nowhere near what they > really > want. > > I believe you will see this happen more often as states look for > additional > reve
[amsat-bb] Re: OFF grid solar system
Ok, I'm not *trying* to be dense here, but regardless of whether you tie into the grid, use batteries, or have an off-grid system with no batteries that only works during the day, what happens to the 30% waste of generated electricity that is dissipated as heat? What am I missing? Something you *all* must be aware of, those transformers on the pole work both ways: 7200VAC down to 240VAC and 240VAC back to 7200VAC. If you get a lineman out there working on a phase he thinks is not hot and he gets seriously injured or killed, you will be liable. I'm *not* saying this to discourage you, but to make sure you use a licensed electrician to install a proper automatic disconnect switch. Alabama Power requires an automatic disconnect. 73, Joel, W4JBB Bob Bruninga wrote: >> Think in terms of ... an independant >> 12 volt DC system.. starting small >> and building up over time... We need >> to be energy independant on a small >> scale... >> > > Agree, but think in terms of big panels if you want low cost. I have > Eighteen 1 foot solar panels on my car that produce 215 watts total, but the > cost for small panels was $2400. > > Now the cost of a single 3.3' by 5.5' house panel is only $600 and it > produces 225 watts. A 4 to 1 cost savings. So you can get a lot more watts > per dollar by getting a large panel. Though it is a 30 volt panel good for a > 24/28 volt battery system. You can still use it for a 12v system by charging > the batteries in series and using them in parallel or getting a 24VDC to > 12VDC converter available at any truck parts store. > > Bob, Wb4APR > ___ > Sent via amsat...@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...@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
[amsat-bb] Sunday Morning AO-51 Pass
I finally have my rotor and coax connected into the shack and just listening right now. Heard W7JPI this morning on AO-51, sounded great. 73, Joel, W4JBB No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 8.5.409 / Virus Database: 270.14.3/2412 - Release Date: 10/03/09 18:34:00 ___ Sent via amsat...@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
[amsat-bb] SatPC32 Not Tuning
I am trying to get SatPC32 v12.8 to automatically tune my FT847. When the program first comes up, the radio is initialized as indicated by the "CAT" display and when I click on a satellite, the radio tunes to the correct satellite. That's where it stops; it no longer changes the frequency of the radio. If I turn off and turn back on CAT control, it will update once and will then quit again. I have the same problem with my FT-857. I have read the help and .SQF files, but I cannot seem to find the right combination. I have changed the baud rate of the radio and the program to 4800, 9600, and 57.6k and made the corresponding changes with the CAT delay value as recommended by the manual. I have not yet tried uninstalling and re-installing the app. I am running Vista 32bit and using a USB-to-serial converter which works with everything else. The same converter works with the HRD 5.0 Satellite Tracker. Problem is, I cannot get HRD to accept sub-audible tones so I can work AO-51. I don't know if it's a limitation of the program or cockpit error. Any suggestions, known issues, or anyone else having the same problem(s)? Thanks, Joel, W4JBB No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 8.5.420 / Virus Database: 270.14.4/2416 - Release Date: 10/05/09 18:23:00 ___ Sent via amsat...@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
[amsat-bb] Re: SatPC32 Not Tuning
Nothing like getting a reply from the author. :) Thanks, Erich, that worked. I set the CAT interval to 50 and all is well. Thanks to all the other replies as well. :) 73, Joel, W4JBB Erich Eichmann wrote: > Hi Joel, > the program updates the radio frequencies only when the change of the > Doppler shift of the higher of both frequencies (with AO-51 mode V/U the > downlink) exceeds the "interval". The interval for FM sats is 600 Hz by > default (menu "CAT"). Decrease it to - say - 50. Then watch the change of > the Doppler shift of the downlink in the SatPC32 frequency window. When > the Doppler shift of the downlink changed by 50 Hz or more the program > should update both radio frequencies. See also sect. D 4 (menu "CAT") in > the manual. > > 73s, Erich, DK1TB > > - Original Message - > From: "Joel Black" > To: "Amsat Reflector" > Sent: Tuesday, October 06, 2009 5:16 AM > Subject: [amsat-bb] SatPC32 Not Tuning > > > >> I am trying to get SatPC32 v12.8 to automatically tune my FT847. When >> the program first comes up, the radio is initialized as indicated by the >> "CAT" display and when I click on a satellite, the radio tunes to the >> correct satellite. That's where it stops; it no longer changes the >> frequency of the radio. If I turn off and turn back on CAT control, it >> will update once and will then quit again. I have the same problem with >> my FT-857. >> >> I have read the help and .SQF files, but I cannot seem to find the right >> combination. I have changed the baud rate of the radio and the program >> to 4800, 9600, and 57.6k and made the corresponding changes with the CAT >> delay value as recommended by the manual. I have not yet tried >> uninstalling and re-installing the app. >> >> I am running Vista 32bit and using a USB-to-serial converter which works >> with everything else. The same converter works with the HRD 5.0 >> Satellite Tracker. Problem is, I cannot get HRD to accept sub-audible >> tones so I can work AO-51. I don't know if it's a limitation of the >> program or cockpit error. >> >> Any suggestions, known issues, or anyone else having the same problem(s)? >> >> Thanks, >> Joel, W4JBB >> > > > > > > > No virus found in this outgoing message. > Checked by AVG - www.avg.com > Version: 8.5.420 / Virus Database: 270.14.4/2416 - Release Date: 10/05/09 > 18:23:00 > > > > > > > >> ___ >> Sent via amsat...@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...@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...@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
[amsat-bb] What Are Others Using
Years ago, when I first started operating the satellites, I used an IC-821. I "graduated" up to an FT-847. I don't ever remember using software to tune the rig (the IC-821 or FT-847) only software to steer the antennas. For the life of me, I cannot seem to find my downlink using the FT-847 and *any* tuning software with the linear birds (AO-7 and VO-52). It works fine with the "fixed" freq FM birds which, understandably, is easier for it to track. I am just wondering, does *anyone* use tuning software with the linear birds or do you just tune it manually? 73, Joel, W4JBB ___ Sent via amsat...@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
[amsat-bb] Re: What Are Others Using
My, my at the assumption. I've been a customer of SatPC32 for more than six years. I've been on sabbatical. :) Trying to get the cobwebs cleaned out. On Thu, Oct 15, 2009 at 7:39 PM, David - KG4ZLB wrote: > Seconded! > > Buy the licence, donate to AMSAT - easy! > > -- > David > KG4ZLB > www.kg4zlb.com > > > > Elan Portnoy wrote: > > SatPC32 works great on the linear birds. Takes a little tuning to get on > the right freq, but works nicely after setup. > > > > > > > > --- On Thu, 10/15/09, Joel Black wrote: > > > > > > > > ___ > > Sent via amsat...@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...@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 > -- Joel Black jbblack(at)charter.net http://www.upromise.com/guest/2128348014 ___ Sent via amsat...@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
[amsat-bb] Re: ITAR is interesting to me
Someone mentioned waaay back in this discussion something about ITAR and international students being taught in the US. Read this article: http://slashdot.org/story/09/10/17/1948223/The-USs-Reverse-Brain-Drain Is there anyone left in our government with common sense any more? Wait... gah!!! I'm blinded by a flash of the obvious - NO, there is no one left in government with common sense. While I'll not get into the politics of ITAR (we're way beyond politics), perhaps we should get the ARRL involved in lobbying our effort. Before, you say, "That's a wonderful idea, why don't you take that one and try it." I am. I don't know the exact procedure for doing so, but I think a letter to my ARRL Division Manager might be a good start. 73, Joel, W4JBB k0...@juno.com wrote: > Greetings All: > > The Amsat BB is a great source of information we all know: > I have a few questions about ITAR that I thought might interest more than > I. > I tried to be careful of the words I used. > > 1.) Do all launched satellites that have US components or interests fall > under ITAR? > 2.) When does ITAR interest begin for a launchable Amateur satellite? > 3.) Is software and firmware that is a part of a Amateur satellite at > launch fall under ITAR? > 4.) Who normally handles University Cube Sat ITAR issues when Amateur > frequencies are used? > 5.) Who normally handles US Military school Cube-Sat ITAR issues when > Amateur frequencies are use ? > 6.) When is there no ITAR interest in a Amateur satellite? > 7.) Did Suitsat one or two (ARISSaT-1) have any ITAR problems since they > are satellites > using Amateur frequency? > > I have more ITAR related questions. > > Best Regards > > Joe K0VTY > > > Diet Help > Cheap Diet Help Tips. Click here. > http://thirdpartyoffers.juno.com/TGL2141/c?cp=GQ3735iirkAKr3lhInn7tAAAJ1CmZcBa4CCYwgQDaZ1FJwo1AAYAAADNAAAYQAA= > ___ > Sent via amsat...@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...@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
[amsat-bb] Re: satpc32 problems
No matter the solution, would you mind posting to the -BB also, Erich? I'm in the process of trying to finish an LVB and, if I run into the same problem this might be a good place to start. 73, Joel, W4JBB Erich Eichmann wrote: > Bob, > my answer to your mail from Oct. 16 has twice been returned by comcast.net. > The same happened with previous of my mails to you. > > In the returned message they say: > "A message that you sent could not be delivered to one or more of its > recipients. This is a permanent error. The following address(es) failed: > w7...@comcast.net > SMTP error from remote mailer after initial connection: > host mx2.comcast.net [76.96.30.116]: 554 > IMTA07.emeryville.ca.mail.comcast.net comcast 194.25.134.18 Comcast block for > spam. Please see http://help.comcast.net/content/faq/BL00 ". > > Under the link they say: > "Our filters have determined that email from your mail server has been sent > in patterns which are characteristic of spam.". > > Do you still have another e-mail address? > To be sure that you get this mail I send it also via AMSAT-BB. > > 73s, Erich, DK1TB > > - Original Message - > From: Bob- W7LRD > To: dk...@amsat.org > Sent: Friday, October 16, 2009 5:43 PM > Subject: Fwd: satpc32 problems > > > > > > > - Forwarded Message - > From: "Bob- W7LRD" > To: dk...@amsat.net > Sent: Wednesday, October 14, 2009 7:03:06 PM GMT -08:00 US/Canada Pacific > Subject: satpc32 problems > > > Hello Eric > > I hate to be a complainer but I am having ongoing issues with the program. > When tracking a satellite and driving the LVB tracker. More often than not > the LVB will stop tracking, while satpc continues. The only way I can get > everything back running (short of manual control) is to shut off the LVB, > turn it back on, restart satpc32 and then select the desired satellite. > Lately with AO51 being in mode L/U close accurate tracking is necessary due > to high gain antenna for 1.2ghz. I have been told there is no "hand shaking" > between the computer and LVB, so the LVB just receives the data. I have > reinstalled satpc32 and no change. I also get a note on the computer > "program not responding", then asked if I want to send a message to MS. > Could it be a windows issue?? Any advice is appreciated. > > 73 Bob W7LRD > > Seattle, Wa. > > > > ___ > Sent via amsat...@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...@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
[amsat-bb] Re: Which rotor control to use?
You need to be aware that the add-on board I have has a non-standard parallel address (it was something weird like $008) and there is no way that I can find to change it - either in Windows or on the card itself. Unless I missed something, I could not get it to work with SatPC32. HRD might be different. This apparently does not apply to built-in parallel ports. 73, Joel, W4JBB. Eric Knaps, ON4HF wrote: > Hello George, > > Thanks for the reply. > Maybe I can go for FOD-track. I even have the pcb that was given to me > years ago and it's more fun if I build it myself. > But can I just connect it and let it communicate with HamRadio Deluxe or > do I need to run another program? > > 73, > ON4HF. > > Eric Knaps > Waterstraat 30 > B-3980 Tessenderlo > Belgium > > Tel. +32472985876 (mobile) > > http://www.on4hf.be > > > > George Henry schreef: > >> If you have a parallel port, the FOD-Track system uses that, instead of a >> COM port >> >> >> George, KA3HSW >> >> >> - Original Message - >> From: "Eric Knaps, ON4HF" >> To: "amsat-bb" >> Sent: Sunday, October 25, 2009 3:01 PM >> Subject: [amsat-bb] Which rotor control to use? >> >> >> >> >>> Hello guys, >>> >>> I was wondering what kind of hardware to use to control my satellite >>> rotors. >>> I have the G-500A elevation rotor and the G-650C azimuth rotor. >>> My only com port is connected with my FT-847 for doppler correction via >>> HamRadioDeluxe so it must be something via the USB port. >>> Thanks! >>> >>> Eric - ON4HF >>> >>> -- >>> Eric Knaps >>> Waterstraat 30 >>> B-3980 Tessenderlo >>> Belgium >>> >>> Tel. +32472985876 (mobile) >>> >>> http://www.on4hf.be >>> >>> ___ >>> Sent via amsat...@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...@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...@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...@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
[amsat-bb] Re: Nova Satellite Prediction Program
SatPC32 IMHO... 73, Joel, W4JBB jimcknw...@aol.com wrote: > Installed, reinstalled, changed versions- multiple problems with > calculating scripts. What program should I change to? > ___ > Sent via amsat...@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...@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
[amsat-bb] LVB Tracker Help
I have resurrected my LVB Tracker project from several years back. Using WinXP, I was finally able to go through the first part of programming the tracker I think. I get the following: Press RESET button. Hit any key to continue. Identifying device... Chip ID=09E6 16F876 identified Beginning bulk erase... Bulk erase finished. Press reset button. Hit any key to continue. Programming device... Programming: at this point it counts up from to 1FE0 (I think the last value is correct, it went by so quickly, I'm not sure) Verifying device... Configuring device... Verifying configuration... Switch OFF device. Hit any key to continue. Remove HDR3. Hit any key to continue. Place HDR1 into RUN mode. Hit any key to continue. Device programmed. Hit any key to continue. Then I get a C:\ prompt. At this point, the device is powered down. I take out the RS232 chip and put in the FTDI chip and connect to the LVB Tracker with Tera Term. When I hit "C," I get: +0546 F, A, S: Az Offset=1023 F, E, S: El Offset=1023 At this point, I'm supposed to turn the rotor CW to 360°. Well, I cannot. As soon as I plug the LVB into the G5400 controller (at the very beginning of programming), everything turned to max (EL at 180° and AZ at 180° Right). I cannot change any setting manually with the rotor controller. I can commit values to memory, but nothing else. When I type F, A, E, I get: Az mul=. For F, E, E, I get: El mul=. When I commit all this to memory and hit RESET, I still get no movement from the rotor using the controller. Only after disconnecting the LVB from the controller am I able to move the rotor. Any help or suggestions? 73, Joel, W4JBB ___ Sent via amsat...@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
[amsat-bb] Red Display
For the life of me, I can neither remember nor find why a satellite shows up in red on the display in SatPC32. Can someone point me or kick me in the head? Thanks, Joel, W4JBB ___ Sent via amsat...@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
[amsat-bb] Re: Red Display SATPC32
Alan, That was it. It only occurred over the polar regions. I knew it was something simple. Thanks. 73, Joel, W4JBB Alan P. Biddle wrote: > Joel, > > A satellite on the map can be different colors, depending on the background, > to make it visible. For instance, against a white background such as the > polar regions, it is red. Perhaps elsewhere, though I did not look. Is > that what you are seeing? > > Alan > WA4CA > > > -Original Message- > From: amsat-bb-boun...@amsat.org [mailto:amsat-bb-boun...@amsat.org] On > Behalf Of Joel Black > Sent: 14 November, 2009 17:48 > To: amsat-bb@amsat.org > Subject: [amsat-bb] Red Display > > For the life of me, I can neither remember nor find why a satellite > shows up in red on the display in SatPC32. Can someone point me or kick > me in the head? > > Thanks, > Joel, W4JBB > ___ > Sent via amsat...@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...@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...@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
[amsat-bb] Re: Software to run a ts-200 and LVB
SatPC32. The money you spend gets donated to AMSAT. 73, Joel, W4JBB On 12/14/2009 9:52 PM, racer5039 wrote: > I am having a really hard time getting HRD to run with Windows 7 or Vista. > Is there something else out there that will run the 200 and the LVB tracker? > HRD was working real well til the last couple of updated but I'm ready to try > something else. > > Thanks > Marv. > N0FJP > ___ > Sent via amsat...@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...@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
[amsat-bb] Ground Station Items For Sale
I'm no longer active on satellites and have some satellite-related gear that is surplus to my needs: 1 ea. Symek TNC31S - $275 OBO +shipping (and PayPal fee if applicable). Comes with the 9600 and 9.6k/38.4k modems. I'd prefer to not separate. >From what I read on the Symek site, both are out of production. I think it was UO-36 on which I used this. 1 ea. Icom AG-25 - $125 OBO +shipping (and PayPal fee if applicable). Works with the IC-821 and FT-847 (I do not know about other radios). I might have a pair of mode J antennas too. I need to contact the person who was going to purchase them. Please contact me off-list at w4jbb(at)charter.net 73, Joel - W4JBB ___ 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
[amsat-bb] Cleaning Out More Stuff (2.4GHz)
I found the following in my workshop that need to go: 1 ea. CalAmp 31881 (not sure which crystal is installed, but I'd guess 2m) $30 OBO + shipping 1 ea. CalAmp 31732 (I don't think I modded this one) $30 OBO +shipping 1 ea. DEM 13ULNA $80 OBO +shipping I also have a solid copper 5 1/2-turn 2.4GHz helix with aluminum disk reflector. Not sure how I'd get this to you w/o damage. Has N-type male for interfacing with the 13ULNA. $15 firm +shipping. If you wish to pay by PayPal, I will have to add the service charge to your purchase. You can reply to w4jbb(at)charter(dot)net. Thanks for looking and for the bandwidth. 73, Joel - W4JBB ___ 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
[amsat-bb] More Shack Cleaning
Hopefully, this is the last of the equipment. I found an old FODTrack board. It is built, but it is not in an enclosure. Last time I used it with InstanTrack, it worked fine. I still have the Icom AG-25 2m preamp and an unmodded CalAmp 31732. FODTrack: $75 OBO AG-25: $90 OBO CalAmp 31732: $30 OBO (Mod details are here: http://www.qsl.net/n9zia/wc0y/index.html) Posting on QTH.com also. 73, Joel - W4JBB ___ 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
[amsat-bb] iPad App - HamSatHD
The company I work for gave me a 16GB iPad for work and I can pretty much put anything I want on it. There are not as many apps designed for the iPad as there are for the iPhone (iPhone apps will work, but they're "screen space" small). However, I found HamSatHD. There are no reviews on the App Store so I was wondering if anyone here has used or is using it? I just want to track satellites not control anything while out-and-about. Developer webpage is www.vosworx.com. Thanks, Joel - W4JBB ___ 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
[amsat-bb] SDR For Satellite Use
I have successfully built and operated my G59 transceiver with GPA10 10W amp (http://www.genesisradio.com.au/) for 40m JT65a contacts to VK2, 75m voice contacts in the States, and everything in between. At some point in the past, some group (TAPR?) had a 2m SDR transceiver. I have no idea where that information might be. Does anyone here use SDR for their satellite operation? Maybe using Flex radios or something else? I don't know that it would matter on the FM birds, but it would be nice to be able to see the spectrum on the linear birds. Thanks, Joel - W4JBB ___ 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
[amsat-bb] SatPC32 Releasing Ports
I have an issue that appears to be with SatPC32 although I could be wrong. When I use SatPC32, all works fine with my USB-to-serial adapter controlling the radio. If I shut down SatPC32 and start HamRadioDeluxe, generally speaking, I cannot control HRD. It's as if the USB-to-serial adapter is still wanting to talk to SatPC32. Starting up SatPC32 in the same session works fine. I have found that a restart of the PC is not usually enough to release the USB adapter - a full shutdown is required. Occasionally, unplugging and replugging the USB adapter will work, but not often. USB adapter: U232-P9 PC: Dell E520 OS: Vista 32-bit RAM: 3GB SatPC32: v12.8a HRD: v5.0 build 2434 Beta When I was getting the version numbers, I started SatPC first and then HRD. Right now, it's working as it should. Even changing satellites, thus making the radio switch modes, doesn't cause HRD to fail on start-up. So, I cannot make it *not* work right now. Thanks, Joel, W4JBB ___ Sent via amsat...@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
[amsat-bb] Re: It's NOT Censorship
I agree that if you don't like how things are being run: 1. leave, 2. vote out the BoD and vote in new, or 3. form your own organization. What I disagree with is the statement, "AMSAT is not 'censoring' anyone." Now, I'm no lawyer by any stretch, but I can read. Censoring is limiting speech based on what one finds objectionable. What is objectionable is completely subjective. "Abridging the freedom of speech" is how it is worded in the First Amendment. Abridging also means limiting. So, whether you call it censorship or abridging, what the AMSAT BoD has done is censorship. In the end, it's your $44. 73, Joel, W4JBB Clint Bradford wrote: >>> ... Censorship in any form without external control is unacceptable ... >>> > > AMSAT is not "censoring" anyone. In America, only the government is not > allowed to "censor" folks. You know, that First Amendment thingie: > > "Congress shall make no law respecting ... abridging the freedom of speech > ... " > > This messagegroup - and millions of others - is a private party. NOT > government-run nor sponsored. We're mere visitors entering and using it, and > we have to abide by its rules - else we go elsewhere. Like guests in your > home, there's an expected set of rules for behavior, and AMSAT just laid them > out in black and white. > > Similar to a Web site's "user service agreement" - a concept and device I've > been using for my sites' visitors for over twenty years. A properly-drafted > user service agreement spells out what I promise to you as the Web site > owner, and what I expect from you as a visitor. Kinda like shaking hands > before you peruse my sites. > > Clint Bradford, K6LCS > http://www.k6lcs.com > ___ > Sent via amsat...@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...@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
[amsat-bb] Re: New Lindy's QRV
Enjoyed your webpage, Ed. Probably going to take down the AO-10 antennas here and put up something much simpler such as your Lindenblads or a couple of TPM's. The AO-10 setup is way overkill for what is up there and I'd rather use my tower for something other than satellites. Good luck with your antennas. 73, Joel, W4JBB On Sat, Feb 6, 2010 at 2:03 PM, Edward Cole wrote: > Just a note that I copied HO-68 beacon yesterday on my new Lindenblad > antennas. > I have updated the webpage: > http://www.kl7uw.com/LBant.htm > > I am only running mode-VU with the "Lindys" because the UHF antenna > has a preamp and the VHF one does not. > > My directional satellite array is not quite QRV; needs cables > connected in shack. > They have full capability for modes; VU, UV, US, VS, LU, LS > So I will not be on AO-7, VO-52, or FO-29 quite yet. > > 73, Ed - KL7UW, WD2XSH/45 > == > BP40IQ 500 KHz - 10-GHz www.kl7uw.com > 500-KHz/CW, 144-MHz EME, 1296-MHz EME > DUBUS Magazine USA Rep dubus...@hotmail.com > == > > ___ > Sent via amsat...@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 > -- Joel Black jbblack(at)charter.net ___ Sent via amsat...@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
[amsat-bb] Re: New Lindy's QRV
Good freaking grief! Are you kidding me? AMSAT-BB is why I have more "crow's feet." It's -his- money. The last paragraph actually states that he was making SSB and FM contacts. Does it -matter- if he uses a preamp on FM, SSB, or freaking two cans and a string? Joel, W4JBB On Mon, Feb 8, 2010 at 8:13 PM, Clint Bradford wrote: > I read that article, and when I got to the last of it and he mentioned that > he was using a pre-amp for working the FM birds, I wondered out loud: > "Why???" > > We're working '27, '50, and '51 with HTs and meager antenna improvements. > Better yet, build a tape measure Yagi - you can realize great gain with > about six bucks of parts. Note that I haven't mentioned, "Buy a pre-amp" > anywhere. I was considering building one of those antennas mentioned in QST > last month - until I read that he was using a pre-amp. > > I'll just stick with what works for me ... home-brew or commercial Yagis > ... a log periodic every now and then ... and no pre-amp anywhere. > > Clint, K6LCS > http://www.work-sat.com > ___ > Sent via amsat...@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 > -- Joel Black jbblack(at)charter.net ___ Sent via amsat...@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
[amsat-bb] Re: New Lindy's QRV
Yes, I agree with that, Clint. I have been looking at Jerry Brown's, K5OE, archived pages available here: http://web.archive.org/web/2824013151/http://members.aol.com/k5oe/ After looking at it, I think I like the radiation patterns of the TPM II's better than any other LEO antenna I've seen thus far. There may be better out there that I have not seen. I have worked Jerry several times with him using those antennas. I don't have a problem with large arrays where I live, but they're just overkill IMHO. I only have one large tree to the SW and with the beamwidth of 22 elements on VHF and 44 on UHF, my rotor is constantly working. 73, Joel, W4JBB On Mon, Feb 8, 2010 at 10:45 PM, Clint Bradford wrote: > >> ... Does it -matter- if he uses a preamp on FM, SSB, or freaking two > cans and a string? > > Absolutely not. It has just been my "mantra" the past four years advising > folks that you do not need 100 Watts of TX power, expensive Yagis on the > roof, and a rotator under computer control to get into working the FM > satellites. > > Now, then, if I lived in Drew's neighborhood, all that equipment sounds > pretty appealing ... working the birds while adding fire to the fireplace > with a hot toddy (or three) at hand. > > Clint, K6LCS > ___ > Sent via amsat...@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 > -- Joel Black jbblack(at)charter.net ___ Sent via amsat...@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
[amsat-bb] Membership Benefits
AMSAT-BB, I realize what I'm going to get by asking this... If you were giving a presentation to amateur radio operators who know little or nothing of AMSAT, what would you list as some of the benefits of being a member of AMSAT? What would be the single most important reason? 73, Joel, W4JBB ___ Sent via amsat...@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
[amsat-bb] Satellite Radio(s)
Hypothetically speaking, if you had an FT-857 and wanted to work satellites full-duplex, what would you pair it with? Another 857, an 817, something else? Thanks, Joel, W4JBB AMSAT #32589 ___ Sent via amsat...@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
[amsat-bb] FT847 and Lightning
I appreciate everyone who has responded to my incessant questions here lately regarding radios, etc.. Tuesday morning, I took a hit to my VHF/UHF vertical antenna. It came into the ham shack and got the following equipment: FT-847 FT-8100 RS-35A either the LVB Tracker, the G5400 controller or both (the G5400 controller is sluggish and the LVB tracker doesn't even turn on) cable modem router my PC's NIC my kids' PC's NIC and reset a couple of GFI outlets throughout the house. I have been asking the questions of the radios because I have an FT857 that I was not in use at the time; however, it does not have full duplex capability. I really like the 857 and wouldn't mind having another, but the FT817 would be (from what I read) a great little receiver and it's a bit less expensive (I can add filters to it at that cost). As for the 847, I work in telecom and I know what kind of damage you fight from a lightning strike. I could send it to Yaesu, but when it comes back, I'll be fighting with it from now on. I just don't want to spend $500 for repairs only to have to send it back six months later for repairs again. I'll try to fix it, but that's going to be kind of slow - it'll also make for a good teacher. As for the rotor controller, I was already going to completely take down the HEO antenna array and put up either homebrew eggbeaters or turnstiles. The 22 elements on 2m and 44 elements on 70cm are a tad overkill for what is up there and they need work. I really want to put a hexbeam up on that tower anyway. :) I guess I'm looking for advice. Do I send the radio to Yaesu for repair or purchase a companion for the 857? Any other advice is also welcome. Folks, unplug and disconnect everything. We had another lightning storm last night. At 3am, my wife woke me and said, "Honey, there's light..." I ran into the hamshack and just pulled everything out of the wall. It's funny looking back on it, but I still have a sick feeling in my stomach. ___ Sent via amsat...@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
[amsat-bb] Playing With Lightning
I certainly appreciate all the replies and the encouragement. If any of you with a G-5400 controller would check something out, I'd appreciate it. When I move up or right, there is a momentary deflection in the opposite direction. Then, when I release the button, it jumps ahead a bit by just a few degrees. If I move down or left, there is no immediate deflection, but when I release the button, it deflects in the opposite direction. I just don't remember mine acting that way before the strike. Thanks, Joel, W4JBB ___ Sent via amsat...@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
[amsat-bb] Re: Simple antennas
Jacob, If you're a member of the ARRL, do a search for QHTenna on their webpage. It's a simple turnstile antenna. I have a pair and they're easily built. Also, the K5OE page is archived in many places. You can do a search for "Texas Potato Masher" and see what you get. I'm going to try and build a pair of those (TPM2's) soon. Good luck. 73, Joel, W4JBB Jacob Tennant wrote: > Could anyone give me some advice on using a setup consisting of the smaller > antennas such as K5OE Eggbeaters, dual-crossed MOXON's from ARRL site. > > I am starting to build the dual-crossed MOXON setup as I am running into > some snags getting my planned bigger antenna setup installed as well as I > was hoping to use the smaller antenna setup for a Field Day setup but don't > want to wait till that day to use them and look like a fool > > Would even consider the quadrifilliar antennas if I could find the plans for > both bands? > > Jacob Tennant - K8JWT > > ___ > Sent via amsat...@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...@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
[amsat-bb] OT: Power Supply Crowbar Question
I have a question about the crowbar circuit in my RS-35A I'm trying to repair after my lightning strike. Please contact me off list and I will pose my question. Thanks, Joel, W4JBB ___ Sent via amsat...@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
[amsat-bb] Re: AMSAT Awards
Congratulations to all the awardees. Joel, W4JBB Bruce wrote: > The following have entered into the Satellite Communicators Club for > making their first satellite QSO. > > Jonathan Guthrie, KA8KPN > Mesa Community College ARC, KM7CC > David Sharpe, KF7DRQ > Jim Adams, K0BAM > Richard Rowe, KJ4OUQ > > > The following have earned the AMSAT Communications Achievement Award. > > Randal Schulze, KD0HKD, #509 > Michael Vargo, AC8CX, #510 > Jose Toste, CU3EQ, #511 > > > The following have earned the W4AMI Achievement Award (for 1000 contacts) > > Douglas Anoman, KC9MLN, #60 > Howard Merritt, KD7ZLF, #61 > Chip Weems, W4PBG, #62 > > > The following have earned the South Africa AMSAT Communications > Achievement Award > > Randal Schulze, KD0HKD, #US142 > Michael Vargo, AC8CX, #US143 > Jose Toste, CU3EQ, #US144 > > To see all the awards visit http://www.amsat.org or > http://www.amsatnet.com > > > Bruce Paige, KK5DO > AMSAT Director Contests and Awards > > > ARRL Awards Manager (WAS, 5BWAS, VUCC), VE > Houston AMSAT Net - Wed 0200z on Echolink - Conference *AMSAT* > Also streaming MP3 at http://www.amsatnet.com > Podcast at http://www.amsatnet.com/podcast.xml or iTunes > > Latest satellite news on the ARRL Audio News > http://www.arrl.org > > > > > > > > > > > ___ > Sent via amsat...@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...@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
[amsat-bb] SatPC32 and FT-857
It seems that any time I leave SatPC32 to operate my FT-857 on HF, SatPC32 leaves my radio in split mode. Is there a setting or something else I have missed somewhere? Thanks, Joel, W4JBB ___ Sent via amsat...@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
[amsat-bb] FT-847 CAT Question
I just got my FT-847 back from Yaesu for repairs due to a lightning strike. The radio powers up and what little I've checked seems to work except for the CAT port. 1. I have tried both SatPC32 and HRD to talk to the radio, but nothing happens. I don't even get the "CAT" indicator on the radio which, if memory serves, would show up even if I had erroneous settings you just couldn't do anything with the radio / software. 2. I have changed to slower baud rates in the programs and correspondingly, the baud rate in the FT-847. 3. I have changed baud rates in device manager for this COM port. 4. I have changed that COM port flow control from none to Xon/Xoff to hardware with no change. 5. I have changed HRD to use DTR, DTR and RTS, and just RTS. 6. I just tried a reset of all settings on the FT-847 and that still does not solve the issue. 7. I have checked the null-modem cable with an RS-232 tester and it appears good. 8. I just hooked that tester up to the cable with the other end of the cable connected to the radio and pins 2, 3, and 5 lit up. (Strange, I cannot duplicate that test now - nothing lights up on the RS-232 tester.) At this point, I'm pretty sure my CAT port got taken out too (there was no way for me to test this before sending back to Yaesu as the radio would not power up) after the "event." However, I'm open to the possibility that I have missed something. I am leaning heavily toward just using it as is. There was a time when I was using an IC-821, that I didn't have CAT control, but I do miss my HRD. :( I would like to add that I am using a Prolific USB-to-serial converter that works flawlessly with my FT-857. Thanks for any help or advice. 73, Joel, W4JBB AMSAT #32589 ___ Sent via amsat...@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
[amsat-bb] You Know What's Really Annoying?
A lot of you incessantly bitching about the inane. Talk about taking up bandwidth... Yeah, I just took up your BW and bitched about the inane, but at least I realize it. Joel, W4JBB ___ Sent via amsat...@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
[amsat-bb] Yaesu G-5400B For Sale
I'll offer it here first. I have a Yaesu G-5400B rotor and controller for sale. It took some lightning damage to the controller but it has been repaired and works well. It is several years old and I am not the original owner. I will also throw in a Fox-Delta ST1. The ST1 is brand new - I still have the raw parts for assembling the cable that interfaces to the rotor controller. The rotor, controller, and ST1 for $300 firm. I also have the following antennas that I will sell locally (Tuscaloosa, AL) or will travel up to 50 miles: KLM 22-element 2m CP antenna - $100 firm Homebrew 44-element 70cm CP antenna - $100 firm I also have a couple of preamps - both Icom, one for 2m, one for 70cm that I could be talked into selling and an eight foot FG crossboom. All of this equipment is still mounted on a short tower, but can be removed easily. I can provide pictures if needed. Thanks for the BW. 73, Joel, W4JBB -- Joel Black jbblack(at)charter.net ___ Sent via amsat...@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
[amsat-bb] Re: Yaesu G-5400B For Sale
Sorry, folks. I should have stated, those prices do not include shipping. My apologies for any inconvenience. 73, Joel, W4JBB On Sun, Jun 6, 2010 at 6:51 PM, Joel Black wrote: > I'll offer it here first. I have a Yaesu G-5400B rotor and controller for > sale. It took some lightning damage to the controller but it has been > repaired and works well. It is several years old and I am not the original > owner. I will also throw in a Fox-Delta ST1. The ST1 is brand new - I > still have the raw parts for assembling the cable that interfaces to the > rotor controller. The rotor, controller, and ST1 for $300 firm. > > I also have the following antennas that I will sell locally (Tuscaloosa, > AL) or will travel up to 50 miles: > > KLM 22-element 2m CP antenna - $100 firm > Homebrew 44-element 70cm CP antenna - $100 firm > > I also have a couple of preamps - both Icom, one for 2m, one for 70cm that > I could be talked into selling and an eight foot FG crossboom. > > All of this equipment is still mounted on a short tower, but can be removed > easily. I can provide pictures if needed. > > Thanks for the BW. > > 73, > Joel, W4JBB > > -- > Joel Black > jbblack(at)charter.net > -- Joel Black jbblack(at)charter.net ___ Sent via amsat...@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
[amsat-bb] U-110 Rotor Setup
I am looking for an old article regarding the use of two U-110 rotors for satellite operations. I have gone through all my old references and cannot find what I'm looking for. Basically, it was a setup using two U-110's (or it could have been two U-100's). The homemade controller used either toggle or rocker switches and had a digital readout of AZ/EL using DVOM's. As far as I remember, it was all manual. I remember seeing this in the back of some publication, but I cannot find it. Does anyone have any inkling of and idea what I'm talking about? 73, Joel - W4JBB ___ 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
[amsat-bb] Re: U-110 Rotor Setup
Okay, that sounds familiar, John. It had pots that may have been belt driven that increased or decreased the resistance depending on rotation. Something else I remember - the person put a plastic garbage can over it to keep out the rain. I know why he did that. I just find it amusing that I remember that detail. Let me ask one other question before I get to comments. I actually have one U-100 and one U-110. Is this going to be an issue? I'm not sure what the difference is. @AA5AM: Don't put too much into it. I thought someone might remember it off the top of their head. There are several solutions that I got that may be better than what I was looking for. @KL7XJ: I vaguely remember the SatEL being advertised in the Journal. I think it is time to renew my AMSAT membership and maybe purchase those DVD's. @VK4HHH: I have looked at K8DAV's setup quite a bit. I got myself confused thinking it only worked over a parallel port (that is an issue but can be overcome unless portable/field). However, I realized the basic stamp controller worked over a serial port (not an issue). I may go this route, but I'm still looking for options. Will this setup work using SatPC32 which was my preferred tracking software when I was satellite active? @KO6TH: I like your approach. Let me see if I got my head wrapped around your design - serial interface to the FODtrack board which then controlled your controller? That's pretty cool. @VU2POP: Very nice homebrew tower and rotor setup. Still working out my options. I just want something simple that I can take to the field using a modern laptop. Lot's of good suggestions here. Downloaded the form to renew my AMSAT membership too. 73, Joel - W4JBB On 7/3/2012 5:09 AM, John / NS1Z wrote: I think you are referring to the satellite compendium put out many years ago. Ii am sure it is out of print now. Over the years I built a couple and one even auto track (but a LOT of work) -----Original Message- From: Joel Black Sent: Monday, July 02, 2012 6:09 PM To: AMSAT Subject: [amsat-bb] U-110 Rotor Setup I am looking for an old article regarding the use of two U-110 rotors for satellite operations. I have gone through all my old references and cannot find what I'm looking for. Basically, it was a setup using two U-110's (or it could have been two U-100's). The homemade controller used either toggle or rocker switches and had a digital readout of AZ/EL using DVOM's. As far as I remember, it was all manual. I remember seeing this in the back of some publication, but I cannot find it. Does anyone have any inkling of and idea what I'm talking about? 73, Joel - W4JBB ___ 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
[amsat-bb] Returning Satellite User
For whatever reason, I have gotten interested in amateur satellites again after being away for almost 10 years. I've gone through the last two months in the archives and I have a couple of things: 1. I saw some questions about the the K3. I have the K3 and the KX3 and do not know of a satellite app that will "talk" to them. Both use "a Kenwood" command set, but I do not know which. Thus far, I have not been able to get either SatPC32 or MacDoppler to talk to my K3. 2. I have access to an FT-847 I sold my father several years ago. This is the radio I used on the satellites when I was active. I had initially thought about buying the 2m transverter for the K3, but after talking to many users of that transverter and explaining what I wanted to and that I had access to the FT-847, it was advised that I go with the FT-847. 3. I have a 2m / 70cm QHTenna turnstile pair. I *also* have an Arrow 144/432 antenna. I think either pair will work well from my plywood-decked, shingle roof. I would like to use the Arrow, but (a) I don't have a good way to point it, and (b) I cannot find the gain. If memory serves, it has a fairly good gain around 4dB for 2m and 6 dB for 70cm. I don't know that there's any gain to the turnstiles, but at least I won't need a rotor for those. Any other advice here? 4. I also have the AG-25 2m preamp. I know the FT-847 will power this preamp. It is not quite as good as the DEM preamps, but it's what I have. Any suggestions here? I am really not interested in the FM satellites. I am very interested in the linear transponders - especially CW. Any CW ops out there? I'm still slow (13 - 15WPM), but I'm working on my speed. From what I've read, the linear transponders are on AO-7, FO-29 (I cut my teeth on FO-20), VO-52, and AO-73. It looks like AO-7 is both mode A and mode B, FO-29 is mode J, and both VO-52 and AO-73 are mode B. It sounds like there is really a lot to play with up there. 73, Joel - W4JBB ___ 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
[amsat-bb] Alliance U-110 (Maybe U-100) Sync
I've got an Alliance U-1xx (not sure which, I thought it was labeled, but I cannot find it). Reading an online manual says if the light stays on after rotating, the rotor and control box should be re-synced and to follow the instructions on the bottom of the control box. I don't have those instructions. Does anyone know how to re-sync this rotor? Thanks, Joel - W4JBB ___ 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
[amsat-bb] Setup Complications
This is not going as smoothly as I had anticipated (does anything ever go as anticipated?). I had initially planned on using my Arrow II antenna without the diplexer and an old Alliance U-110 rotor. As you'll read below, that doesn't look like it will happen anytime soon. Even though the group was helpful trying to get the Alliance U-110 rotor controller synced (sunc?) up, It does not work reliably. It will turn in one direction, but not the other. I do not have the money to send the controller off for repair and Norm doesn't repair the U-100's and -110's. I could buy one from him, but again, that's money that isn't in the budget. After this issue, I took the controller apart and after a couple of hours, I finally get it to step in one direction correctly, but I cannot get it to go in the opposite direction. Shorting the shaft to the contacts in the controller rotates the rotor correctly so I am fairly certain the rotor is good - I have a controller issue. The online diagrams show a blow-up of the parts, but not now to correctly put it back together (there is a tab on the back of the black dial face and I'm not sure where that or the contacts on the actual geared dial go. I'm going to reluctantly email Norm and ask him, but he does this as a business and I don't want to interfere with that. In the past, he has been nice enough to offer advice though. I'm still playing with it and it hasn't "whooped" me yet. For now, I do *not* have a rotor I can use. I am looking at purchasing another controller if I'm too stupid for Norm to help ;) . They're fairly cheap on the "Bay of E." Without a reliable rotor, my pursuit has led me to QFH and Lindenblad antennas. Which of the two would be the better performer? I have found the pages with build instructions, but what do folks here think. I know they will be poor performers compared to CP yagis, I'm not looking for that comparison. I understand they're omni antennas with CP. I'm okay with that. I realize I'm not concentrating all of my RF in a narrow beam width. That's okay too. Yep, I will be disappointed. I'm disappointed now with the rotor controller. :) I had initially thought that I'd put whatever I got inside the attic. With an omni, that probably wouldn't be prudent. I have enough coax for two runs to the chimney about 60' away. So, any thoughts comparing the QFH to the Lindy? Again, thanks for all the help getting me going again. 73, Joel - W4JBB ___ 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
[amsat-bb] Almost There
After a rocky start to my Christmas Vacation (I fell off a ladder while pruning limbs from a tree - nothing broken, just banged up and bruised), I almost have my satellite station back on the air. After doing some selling and horse-trading, I am back in possession of my FT-847 that I sold to my dad. After cleaning out my storage building, I found a couple of fairly long runs of LMR400UF. I need to measure them, but I think it is more than enough to get me outside and up the mast. I also have a U-100 control box thanks to someone on the list. I operate an iMac with Mac OS X 10.9.1 so, for now, I am using SatPC32 on my virtual machine. I have played around with MacDopplerPro, but it locks up on my computer continuously. I don't know if it has something to do with the USB-to-serial converter (I *do* have a null modem cable between the USB-to-serial converter and the FT-847), or if MDP is just limited in the unregistered version. The USB adapter works fine with my K3. Let me ask a question about the Arrow Antenna. Someone mentioned Elk Antennas and, while I'm sure it's a fine product, I am already in possession of the Arrow. I've done a lot of reading and without getting into the arguments about Arrow vs. Elk and length of elements, etc., element isolation, and published vs. unpublished gain amounts let me tell you what I'm thinking: First, I'm going to eliminate the diplexer. I will not need it for one thing. For another, it's limited to 10 W max input. From what I have read, my gain will be increased quite a bit. I don't remember the exact amount, but it's quite dramatic. Second, the feed on the Arrow is a gamma match. From my reading, and I'm no engineer, for a gamma match to work properly the element(s) (at least the driven element) needs to be grounded. That's fine and, again, I don't want to get into the "why's" I just want to make sure I'm correct. Therefore, my question is: Is there any reason I cannot turn the driven element 90 degrees to allow for a better connection to the BNC connector? Maybe not even 90 degrees, but enough to get to the BNC connector without the male connector on the cable touching the boom. I want to weatherproof those connections. What I'd like to do after I turn the gamma match is feed it with a very short length of LMR240 and then into a preamp. After the preamp, I'll have the LMR400UF to run to the FT-847. Most gamma matches I see on commercial antennas are on the side of the antenna - if horizontal, they're below (or above) the boom; if vertical, it's off to one side. The Arrow is the only antenna I've seen with a gamma match on which the gamma match is not to one side or the other of the boom. I hope I'm making sense. Anyway, I wanted to let those folks who helped out know that I appreciate it and that I'm much closer to being back on the birds than I was a few weeks ago. 73, Joel - W4JBB ___ 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
[amsat-bb] AMSAT Attitudes
You know, my kids don't act like this. If they did... Well, they don't. Holier-than-thou, narcissistic, shall I go on? Are you all ticked at *me*now? Good, at least I have you agreeing about *something*! Mmm... I wonder why AMSAT membership is waning... Joel - W4JBB ex-AMSAT member 32589 ___ 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
