[amsat-bb] Re: Mast-mounted preamp recommendation?
The difficulty with mast mounted preamplifiers is that they have to be selected for a specific electromagnetic environment. If your environment is hot with a lot of ham activity, local pagers and FAA stations, the preamp may not be able to handle all of the RF, unless it is suitably narrow banded. Some preamplifiers are broadband and some are narrow band, where you will be operating. If your environment is quiet, most any preamplifer will work well. If your RF environment is NOT quiet, you have to limit the preamp RF pass band for your activity. Otherwise too much RF gets into it and raises the noise floor, reducing the S/N Last time I tested a ICOM 2M preamp, it performed well, less than 1 dB NF with pro test gear. What does your RF environment look like ? Stan, W1LEFN41sr Cape Cod On 11/3/2011 9:18 PM, James Cutler wrote: All, Does anyone have any recommendations on high quality mast-mounted preamps for UHF? We're using the Icom AG-35 and not happy with the noise figure. We're going to try an adjustment described here http://www.eham.net/reviews/detail/6116. We are looking at the amps from ARR and SSB. Any other recommendations? http://www.ssbusa.com/gaasfet.html http://www.advancedreceiver.com/page10.html Thanks, --Jamie ___ 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] Re: Pre-amps with SWR meter
Hello Mike, Measure DC resistance from the input coaxial center conductor to the output coaxial center conductor. If it is low resistance then it will pass DC to the preamp. If it is high DC resistance then somewhere inside is capacitive coupling and DC will NOT pass top the preamp. Also measure DC resistance of the coaxial center conductors to ground. It should be high DC resistance. If this DC resistance is low, it will not pass DC power to the preamplifier. I do not have a schematic of the referenced SWR meter to verify/review. I suspect it will pass DC. Stan, W1LE Cape Cod FN41sr On 6/15/2011 6:22 PM, wolth...@msu.edu wrote: Installing my new UHF/VHF SSB preamps tonight. I have FT-847 to send 12VDC to them. I currently have an SWR meter between the 847 and the preamps. Can I feed power through the SWR meter safely? The SWR meter is an SX-1000 by Diamond. Thanks, Mike kb8zgl ___ 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] Re: Replacement Yaesu G-5400B Controller Terminal Strips
Hello Will, I would consider re-tapping to the next size larger with a SAE thread, then add SAE machine screws or.. solder directly to the stripped terminal after removing the metric machine screw. I infrequently use these terminals, rather I have a short pigtail with a connector. Stan, W1LE Cape Cod FN41sr On 6/11/2011 5:00 PM, William Liporace - WC2L wrote: Good Afternoon, I have a Yaesu G-5400B Controller with a couple of semi stripped set screw. I am wondering if someone has replacement terminal strips. Has anyone one come up with a decent replacement scheme? TNX Will WC2L ___ 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] Re: Thrust bearing maintenance
Hello Steve, 15 years outside in the weather is a long time. Options: 1. replace in kind with a new unit. Probably the most time effective and cost effective approach. The new one should last another 15+ years. 2. Soak the old unit in a solvent to loosen up all of the old grease and flush dirt out. Disassemble and inspect the bearings and bearing surfaces. This unit is foreign made so all hardware is probably metric, as are the ball bearings. Clean each ball bearing and inspect for out of roundness and pitting/corrosion. How does each bearing roll on a hard surface ? Replace all pitted bearings and all out of round. Good luck finding metric bearings, Yes, they are out there. Maybe Yaesu has a rebuild kit. Inspect the bearing surfaces for gouging and other wear. Assemble with all new parts. Be sure to grease all of the hardware threads. Do not expect the rebuilt old unit to be as mechanically tight as a new unit. Probably lots more sloppiness in the fit. After rebuild, is there is any binding no matter how light, condemn the unit. As you can see, buying a new unit is the most cost effective and time effective alternative. I just replaced a ROHN TB3 thrust bearing on my main tower, with a new unit. Good Luck with the project. Stan, W1LE Cape CodFN41sr On 6/1/2011 8:19 AM, Stephen E. Belter wrote: I have an Yaesu GS-050 thrust bearing that has been installed for about 15 years. The thrust bearing turns, but requires a lot of force. I disassembled the thrust bearing to find that the grease is very sticky (think candy apple sticky), and not lubricative (if that is a word). Should I take it to an auto repair shop and ask them to degrease and then lubricate similar to repacking a wheel bearing? What kind of grease should be used? Thanks and 73, Steve N9IP -- Steve Belter ___ 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] Re: Yaesu Rotator Cable
Hello Mike, I do not use 6 conductor rotator control cable. I use 8 conductor cables for both AZ and EL on the Yaesu G5400B positioner, leaving 4 spares. That gives me spares to control: 1. cross pol yagi polarization, (RHCP vs LHCP) 2M and 70 cm 2. Mast mounted preamplifier DC power controlled from the sequencer in the shack. 2M and 70 cm. You could also uses spare conductors to control: 3. DC power for the 2.4 GHz to 2M DEMI RX only downconverter. 4. conductors for the temporary maintenance intercom. Spares are good. For all of my other rotator control cables I use 8 conductor. One size, one grade, logistically simple ( to me). I get my rotator control cable from The RF Connection in Gaithersburg Maryland. Ask for Joel. Do a google search on them for details. Stan, W1LE Cape CodFN41sr On 5/29/2011 5:16 PM, Mike1234 wrote: I have looked all over the place I was wondering if someone could tell me where I can get the six conductor rotator cable for the yaesu 5500 rotator. Mike N8GBU ___ 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] Re: Anyone have this problem?
I typically do not worry about getting a wrong call or not getting a QSL card response from that wrong call. My #1 priority is to complete QSO's, as many as possible, with an accurate exchange of QSO information. My last priority is filling out the log and getting QSL cards out. Rarely would I repeat a QSL card request, if response was slow or non existant. Human error is maybe less than 5%, that is less than 5 bad cards out of 100. I have a box of cards I got wrong, or bad ones someone else has sent me. I look at the box every few years and have a good laugh. Do not forget about the 2M (terrestrial) sprint this Monday night, 7-11 PM local. Stan, W1LE Cape Cod FN41sr On 4/9/2011 7:15 PM, Kevin Deane wrote: This is interesting to me because this is the second post card of this type I have received in the last couple of months. The first one was from a fella in Florida. Any ideas as to what may be happening? KD0JWI I try not to make myself look stupid, but sometimes I guess it just happens. I will blame it on being new. I am making a paper log and catching up on cards. So I find this old one laying there and mail it. Well as you can see I got the wrong call AGAIN. Does anyone know who the right call might be? I am sure it must be close... Maybe I need new glasses. :( Kevin KF7MYK ___ 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] Re: M-Squared Yagis
Hello Dave, My Rohn towers use a flat top section, I wrap in a 3X loops ~ 12-15' of a flexible coax as the rotator loop. The loops are loosely layed in on the flat top plate. One end anchored with Tye wraps to the main tower and the other end anchored to the rotating mast, with another single loop to the elevation boom. I typically use LMR 400 ultra flex as the rotator loop with N male connectors. Below the loops are 1/2 or 7/8 hard line and above the loops is LMR-400 laced onto the H or V mast. Stan, W1LE Cape Cod FN41sr On 3/14/2011 8:49 PM, Dave wrote: Hi group- I'm installing my 2MCP22 and 436CP42 U/G antennas and find that the coax is hanging up on the Rohn tower sides near my G-5500 rotator plate. How are folks keeping the coax away from the tower sides and hanging up? Springs? Cable ties? I have hung it up twice and stalled the AZ/EL. I don't wanna break something so thought I'd ask for expert advice and experience and not reinvent the wheel. Thanks in advance, Dave KA0SWT _ No virus found in this message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 10.0.1204 / Virus Database: 1498/3507 - Release Date: 03/14/11 ___ 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] Re: Is it 100% impossible to work a satellite below the horizon?
Hello Bill, Simple answer is YES. The RS series were good examples. I am sure I have done it on FMsats. Enhanced propagation can extend your range both before normal AOS and beyond LOS. Most programs seem to only use line of sight (LOS) Az/El settings. One difficulty is that satellite programs may not give you info on where you could talk to, for negative elevations. Only positive elevations. I would like to see tracking programs that could give me info for -10 degrees, not to track in elevation, but to track in azimuth. One way to make that elusive DX QSO. Stan, W1LE Cape Cod FN41sr On 3/12/2011 7:25 PM, Bill Dzurilla wrote: I was giving a presentation at our club meeting called Working DX on the Satellites and afterwards someone had a good question: is it at all possible that tropo, skip, or other form of enhanced propagation can enable a contact via a satellite below the horizon? It has never happened to me. Has it ever happened? 73, Bill NZ5N ___ 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] Re: Old Cushcraft Parts
Hello Bill, Congrats on the new to you satellite antennas. 1. Look to the CushCraft website for documentation of each antenna. either order parts from CushCraft or for very common items, order from a large hardware store. 2. Verify what you have with the documentation. Element placing on the boom, element length, etc. 3. replace all hardware with stainless steel hardware of the same size. 4. dis assemble everything, elements and the boom. clean up all joints and treat ALL joints with NoAlox aluminum ladden grease. Reassemble. 5. VSWR test, trouble shoot as needed. Stan, W1LE Cape CodFN41sr On 2/7/2011 8:07 PM, Bill Gillenwater wrote: I am getting some 25+ year old Cushcraft antennas. The 416-TB and A144-20T, they need some work. Is there a place to purchase hardware for these antennas? thanks 73 Bill K3SV ___ 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] Re: 2401 MHZ Beacon usage request
I am in favor of any beacon in a ham band. The more beacons the merrier. You are establishing a presence in a infrequently used ham band. My estimate is that less than 10% of the users of a beacon ever report their use of a /B. If I had my way, I would have a /B on every hamband 900 MHz and above, thru 240 GHz. Just be sure to keep out of the passband of a satellite downlink or uplink. Beacons are valuable and best considered a labor of love. We appreciate your /B. Stan, W1LE Cape Cod On 2/4/2011 6:55 PM, Charlie -K3VDB- wrote: Hello AMSAT-BB;..I am trying to determine if the W3HMS beacon on 2401MHZ is being use by the Satellite community located in South/Central PA. We have not received any reports for some time and will not continue to support it if not needed. It Is located in FM19qv (S/E of York PA.) It has been heard in MD and NJ. For those who are not familiar with it, it has been on 24/7 for3 years and located at 1000ft on a 130ft tower. Its output is 1W to a RHCP Lindenblad Ant. Its CW Message contains 4 Telemetering channels and about 15 sec of solid carrier (then it repeat). A spread sheet decoder is available on request. The beacon is useful for Receive system testing and propagation analyzing etc. The 2401MHZ beacon is co-located with a 1296MHZ beacon and a 5760MHZ beacon. The ID message and telemetering is common to all 3 beacons. More info is available from k3...@amsat.org Please Let me know if any of these beacons are useful to you!!! TNX Charlie K3VDB ___ 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] Re: UHF antenna help
Hello Larry, Any terrestrial beacons on 432 MHz to listen to ? The + vs. X configuration, no real advantages in satellite comms except rain will wash off better with the X config. X pol is X pol, no matter how you rotate the boom. If you are planning terrestrial comms, consider the The + config since most terrestrial comms are H polarization. Have you got your pointing accuracy correct to true north ? Any way to verify pointing accuracy, like with a terrestrial beacon ? Have a friend go out with his TX and verify pointing accuracy. On a rare occasion coax wears out intermittently, center pins can get pulled back making poor contact. Listening to a /B, wiggle the antenna and look for intermittent signals. Are all coaxial connectors sealed from the weather ? The VSWR at 1.5:1 is good, but not spectacular. What did you get before ? Does the VSWR change as you wiggle the antenna ? Should be steady, no matter where you look. Does the az/el positioner work ?does it move ? Stan, W1LE Cape Cod FN41sr On 11/29/2010 8:14 PM, larry wrote: Good evening, Name here is Larry, N1MIW. I recently moved to a better (higher) QTH and finally got around to setting up the satellite station almost like it used to be, but am experiencing some reception difficulties on UHF. I'm hoping someone out here can help me diagnose what I'm doing wrong, or what the problem is. I am using a Yaesu FT-847 which is computer controlled, as well as the Yaesu G-5400 rotator. The antennas are mounted on a solid fiberglass mast only ~17 feet off the ground, and fed with LMR-400. The frequencies are correct for the satellite I want to use. My problem is with the 436CP30 antenna. I cannot seem to find good results with it since my move - terrestrial or sat related. My SWR is around 1.5:1 at 435MHz, and the polarity switch is working. I tried changing feedlines and removing the pre-amp, but I still cannot seem to make it work correctly. I am trying to receive SO-50 D/L, and VO-52 U/L, but both are just not working like I remember it being before the move. I don't have any broken or mis-aligned elements (that I noticed - I'll look again). The only thing I was looking into was instead of having it placed on the boom in a + pattern was making it an x pattern - would that make a difference? I don't remember hearing or reading about that anywhere, so I was looking for your opinion. On a side note, what's your opinion of this antenna? Like I said, I used to have good luck with it, but I'm not sure what's different, except the new home. Should I get horizon to horizon coverage (plus or minus a few degrees)? Oh, I also looped the coax off the back like the manual states, but the improvement is very minimal. I checked the jumpers at the tuning box, and they seem OK too. I'm running out of ideas, and any guidance would be appreciated. Thanks looking forward to working the birds again! 73's... Larry N1MIW ___ 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: antenna rotator test
Hello Nayer, I have not seen any other's response, so, here is mine Performance verification, one step at a time. I verify performance and calibrate all scales before the positioners are put on the tower. Start off reading the instruction manual for operation and maintenance. Replace any corroding hardware as needed, one piece at a time. Be sure all hardware is torqued properly and NOT loose. Do not hesitate to grease all threads with a tenacious axle grease, all aseembly bolts/screws and clamps. The grease allows you to take stuff apart 10 years later. Before connecting anything, measure the resistance of the AZ and EL positioner internal position indicating potentiometer. Do the numbers agree with the manual ? Measure the motor winding resistances. Do both the AZ and the EL positioners. Document findings. Is the manual in agreement ? Determine how much rotator control cable length you will need Sketch out a wiring diagram and document the wire color scheme you will be using. (My 8 conductor rotator control cable uses 8 different colors.) Assemble the cable to the AZ and EL rotator with the actual length of rotator control cables to be used. Do not add antennas at this time. Orient the AZ and EL positioners as they would be used. Measure the resistance of the AZ and EL motor windings, with the cable attached, at the controller end of the cable. Measure the resistance of the indicator potentiometer for both AZ and EL. Document your findings. Are readings reasonable ? Correct any problem. Wire up the control cables to the controller and add a means of measuring the AC current to the controller. Apply AC power to the controller and note the AC current draw. Exercise the AZ rotator, verify that the AZ rotator turns clockwise or counterclockwise as activated. Note the AC current when the AZ rotator is turning. AC current should be the same CW or CCW rotation. Is the azimuth indicator going thru it's entire display range ? Calibrate the AZ display according to the manual. Verify position range after any adjustments. Some AZ controllers only go 360 degrees +/- a few degrees , some go more. Park the AZ positioner at one end of its rotation. I call this NORTH. (0.0 degrees true north) Exercise the EL posioner, Calibrate the display as indicated in the manual. Not the mechanical noise to the AZ or EL motor turning. Measure AC current to the positioner as the EL motor is turning max speed. Document. Park the EL positoner at 0.0 degrees elevation. Measure the AC or DC current from the controller to the AZ and EL positioner, document. Measure the voltage at the controller output, no load and full speed positioner load Disassemble and reassemble on the tower. Add the antennas Slip the mast for 0 degrees true north. Torque down the mast clamps Slip the boom for 0 degrees elevation. Torque down the boom clamps. Exercise the AZ and EL over its full range. Measure AC current to the controller with antenna loading. Measure the AC or DC current from the controller to the positioner, with antenna loading. Document findings. Play satellite. I hope this helps Stan, w1LE Cape Cod FN41sr On 11/8/2010 7:37 AM, N. Mahdinejad wrote: Dear all. Thanks for Bob W7LRD and Greg D for answering to my last question. Is there any standard document or other for test antenna rotator? Some functional and environmental tests. If anyone is familiar with these tests, please send me a link to read or download some useful documents. Any help would be gratefully appreciated. Best regards. Nayer Mahdinejad. ___ 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: Antenna Opinions?
M2 makes a 35 element 1296 MHz yagi, on about a 6' boom. individual elements are insulated thru the boom with keepers. Folded dipole driven element. I used 2 each stacked vertically for AO-40. Yes, they are pointy. Stan, W1LE Cape Cod FN41sr On 9/22/2010 1:52 AM, Art McBride wrote: Greg, I would keep the one that works the best. I have been disappointed in the performance of long boom Yagi's for UHF. Resistance loss in the elements often reduces the gain by several dB over calculated gain. Also they are very narrow band, the helix is good for an octave. Art, KC6UQH -- ___ 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 is the proper way to fill out a QSL satellite card
Hello Yanko, For VUCC satellite credit I want to see on the QSL card: 1. the word sat, or satellite, or the actual satellite like AO-40 2. The 4 digit grid of each of the QSO partners. 6 digit grid squares are OK too 3. Uplink and downlink frequencies or bands, eg 2M up, 70 cm down, U/S, V/U, etc. 4. the normal QSL info like call signs, date, time in UTC, 5. signal report: RST for CW (eg.599), RS for SSB/FM (eg.59) EME recognized signal reports would be OK for EME QSLs. 6. Multiple QSO's on a single card or sheet of paper are OK with all required info. If typed/printed I want to see the senders initials to authenticate Multiple QSO's on a label, on a QSL card are OK. Stan, W1LE Cape Cod On 6/23/2010 2:20 PM, Yanko Yankov wrote: Greetings All I want to ask about the proper way to fill out a QSL satellite card . I did some research online and I was unable to find anything in regards to the rst reports . How do you do that ? Do you report 'O' like when you do EME moon bounce or you report 59 like when you making a regular contacts ? Thank you, Yanko de KC9RDT ___ 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: Recommendations for a good bias-t for 2M and 70 CM
Hello Mark, For my SSB Electronics preamps, I use their DC injector with sequencer. Model DCW-15 SHF, for the 1.2 GHz mast mounted preamplifier. For others I use a Down East Microwave DC injector. Like their model BT-H for 900 MHz. It has a higher RF insertion loss at 2M, where it is not designed for, ~ 1-2 dB I believe DC injectors are also made by ARR and SUHNER. Some call them a bias tee, but they are still DC injectors/extractors. They are a 3 port device, 2 RF ports for your frequency, one with DC, one without. The third port is for the DC connection, either injection or extraction. The 2 RF ports are capacitively coupled for the DC isolation. The DC port is connected thru a choke directly to the RF port that needs the DC. Not too hard to build, but the factory made connectored boxes are handy. On one system I use the spare conductors in the AZ/ELcontrol cable for polarization switching, PTT and DC power for the stuff on the tower. My Yaesu G5400B only uses 6 of the 8 conductors in the control cable. 6 for AZ and 6 for EL = 4 spares. 2M pol select, 70cm pol select, common PTT (ground to TX), and DC power. For signal and DC return, I use the big black conductor in the 8C cable. You may consider another spare wire for signal return. Stan, W1LE Cape Cod FN41sr z On 4/25/2010 12:14 AM, Mark Lunday wrote: I have the Bias-T units from Array Solutions, but these are intended for 160-6M (I presume because of component losses at higher frequencies). What are folks using to power mast-mount preamps? Mark Lunday WD4ELG ___ 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] VUCC,and WAS Card Checking available by mail.
Hello The Net: The Satellite VHF/UHF Century Club , VUCC, and the WAS, Worked All States, by satellite are awards for ARRL members that I can check by mail. Award requirements and application/logging forms are available at the ARRL website. For further details, contact me, or if you are on Cape Cod in MA, do drop in. Stan, W1LE ARRL accredited VHF/UHF Award Manager, VUCC with all endorsements HF Award Manager, WAS with all endorsements, DXCC card checker, no 160M cards nor deleted countries please. z On 4/23/2010 12:03 AM, John Neeley wrote: That'll teach you to stand out in a blizzard on the driveway, hi Congrat's Loren. Myself I have 118 grids confirmed now, but havent had them checked, and I got 47 states confirmed. Still need Maine, Nebraska and Rhode Island on my end for W.A.S. John W6ZKH From: LOREN RASMUSSENlorenrasmus...@msn.com To: amsat-bb@amsat.org Sent: Thu, April 22, 2010 1:48:49 PM Subject: [amsat-bb] Satellite VUCC # 194 It came in the mail today. It took from November 2009 through February 2010. About 600 QSOs. FT-60R and an Arrow. 36 states confirmed. Thank you all that returned cards. Yeah, I'm jazzed. 73 Loren k7cwq CN94 ___ 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] ICOM AG-25, 2M Mast Mounted Preamplifier
Hello The Net: I recently got in Bob's (W7LRD) preamp for testing, with the following results: 144 MHz G = 27 dB NF = 1.3 dB 145 G = 27 dB NF = 1.1 dB 146 G = 27 dB NF = 0.9 dB 147 G = 26 dB NF = 0.8 dB 148 G = 25 dB NF = 0.9 dB Performance is better than I expected, but lotsa gain. DC voltage applied was 14 Vdc and lowered to 8 Vdc with no change in NF, but a 1 dB reduction in gain. DC current was ~200 milliamperes at 14 V and 117 milliamperes at 8.0 volts applied. Below 8 Vdc, the gain decreases rapidly and the NF increases. I like the wide operating voltage range. The RF connectors are UHF type. There is a larger screw with a plastic washer underneath, but upon removal there is NO adjustment underneath for neither pass band tuning or gain reduction. Reportedly there is a variable capacitor inside to allow tuning, but nothing externally accessible. Has anyone found a adjustment for gain ? Only choice I can think of is to reduce the RF gain on the transceiver when the preamp is menu enabled. If an attenuator is put in line, the TX power would also be attenuated. We do not want to just throw away RF power in an attenuator Stan, W1LE Cape Cod FN41sr Cape Cod z ___ 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] Folding 4' satellite Dish antenna
Hello The Net: This Ebay item may be of interest. 170460483013 http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItemitem=170460483013 Stan, W1LE Cape Cod FN41sr ___ 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: Plastic weatherproof box
Hello Jeff, Try: 1. LOWES electrical section 2. Ebay using a NEMA 4X enclosure search 3. www.teksupply.com 4. your local electrical supply house 5. Mouser and DigiKey also have weatherproof enclosures Stan, W1LE Cape Cod FN41sr Jeff Yanko wrote: Hi all, I'm in a project which needs plastic weatherproof box. No holes in the box would be ok since I can drill them, run the cables then seal it very well. Looking for 10x10x4, 12x12x4. I've checked Home Depot and they have nothing. Does anybody know would might carry such an item? You can contact me off -bb. 73, Jeff WB3JFS ___ 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: signal-to-noise sampling
Hello Bruce, How about a screen grab with control + print screen (Ctrl + PrtSc) and import into IrfanView with an edit + paste. crop and save as needed. Stan, W1LE Cape Cod FN41sr Bruce Robertson wrote: Hello -- I've been playing around with spectran and satellite CW beacons as a means of testing the effectiveness of various antennas. At the top of the screen, spectran provides a running indication of the frequency of the loudest signal and its volume in dB. Does anyone know of an application by which this sort of information might be captured for later analysis? I don't mind if it is command-line or unix-y, I'd just like to store the data rather than see it float past me. 73, Bruce VE9QRP ___ 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: DK7ZB 435MHz aerial question
Hello Phil, One big problem ALL elements must be installed to effectively test. The V and H elements do interact, but that interaction is designed around by the designer. Add the other elements with matching system and retest. To prove this try modeling the entire element then remove all of the V or H elements. Stan, W1LECape Cod FN41sr Phil wrote: Thank you for reading this. I'm in the process of setting up my satellite station after a five year break and my UHF aerial doesn't seem to be performing as well as I expect it should. I always suspected that it's performance was below par. AO-51, for instance, is received no better than strength 3 on my FT-847. The aerial is a twelve element design (twelve elements in each plane) by DK7ZB and is without a doubt the best 435MHz aerial that I have ever built. The extra twelve elements have been removed for testing purposes and is currently hand held and rotated as accurately as possible. I suspect that the poor gain might be due to the matching system because I was always unsure of the exact physical length of parallel quarter wave matching cable. The element lengths are spot on and the element spacing is within a millimetre of the design figures. The SWR, even after all this time, is still around 1.2:1. The Belden 9913 cable connecting the aerial to the radio is only nine metres long and, as best I can tell, has a about a half DB loss. I would like to make e-mail contact with anyone who may have built this aerial or one of the other UHF designs by DK7ZB. ___ 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: 18 el cp yagi
Good Afternoon Bob, Sealing may not be the answer. There are many ways water/moisture can enter. Water ingress can happen at gaskets, coax penetration points, DC penetration points, connector flanges, mounting screws, cover screws, etc. Coax can even hose water inside. I suggest limiting the moisture entry AND allow it to drain out the bottom. This vent hole will also allow the pressure to equalize, inside vs. outside. If the enclosure breathes there is no pressure or vacuum buildup inside. Vent hole can be small, just big enough to keep the bugs out. ~1/8 is on the big side. Let gravity work for you, put the vent hole on the lowest point. One scenario includes a hot summer day and the air inside the sealed enclosure expands. A thunder storm comes along with much cooler temps and rain. The enclosure is cooled and doused. A vacuum builds up inside and any moisture is sucked in thru any and every possible entry. This vacuum may exist overnight 8 hours, so it has a long time to work. The moisture and acid rain starts to corrode everything inside. Electricity tends to accelerate the corrosion. With a functioning vent hole, the sucking and blowing is controlled and no significant differential pressure from inside to outside. So, what is the solution in a rain/wet environment ? Let the item breathe, allow air to circulate. Keep the rain/snow from falling onto the item, cover it up. If you use an enclosure be sure to vent it. Avoid dissimilar metals that will only corrode, no plated steel hardware or phono connectors. Use sealed/potted relays. For items outside where weight is not a problem, I will design a connection point so I can put a bucket or waste basket over it to keep the rain off. An open bottom, so everything can breathe. The plastic container must be UV proof. A black plastic waste basket of different sizes is my favorite. My old KLM 22 element 2M Xpol has an open polarity select PCB on the antenna boom, but I sealed up the relay and I removed all plated steel hardware and connector, direct solder wires. Then I gave it all a few coats of a clear coat spray. Do not use RTV that smells like vinegar (acetic acid),it only accelerates corrosion. I have used the 3M 5200 series sealants with success. Most of the Landwehr mast mounted preamplifiers directly exposed to the weather will leak. Probably why they are no longer on the market and have sought other business opportunities. Document performance so you can compare later test results. Stan, W1LEFN41sr Cape Cod Bob- W7LRD wrote: Hello I am refurbishing a 18 element CP yagi. I am not sure of the manufacturer. I opened up the relay switching box and found a lot of moisture (Yes I live near Seattle) in the box. Lots of yuck and rust, on non stainless steel hardware.. The 12V connector is a simple phono plug, which should never be used outside. Before I reinvent the wheel has anyone been here before? Replace the phono plug, sealing everything. In the past I have used a material called 3M5200, a marine sealant, nasty but almost permanent. Suggestions please. 73 Bob W7LRD Seattle ___ 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: QRP organization adds satellite endorsements to its awards
Hello Tim and The Net: This QRP only defines CW and SSB QSO's as eligible for participation in their awards. *QRP is defined by the club as 5 watts output CW and 10 watts PEP output SSB. *FM QSO's are not eligible. Did I miss something ? Stan, W1LE Cape Cod Tim - N3TL wrote: Hey everyone, The QRP Amateur Radio Club International (QRP ARCI) has added satellite endorsements to many of its awards, which are available to all amateurs. Please visit the QRP ARCI Web site - http://www.qrparci.org/- and click on the Awards tab down the left side of the home page to see the various awards the group offers, and to get the guidelines for each award. ___ 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: Icom 910H vs Kenwood TS2000
You know you have t much antenna when your neighbor's lights dim when you change AZ or EL. Stan, W1LE Tom wrote: Thanks for all of the great information. Since both the TS2000 and IC910H ___ 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: adding UX-910 to radio
Hello Jack, A few points: 1. Yes, there are existing active satellites on 1.2 GHz, activated on occasion. 2. There are always conventional terrestrial communications on 1.2 GHz (1296 MHz) Contests, sporadic openings, EME, repeaters, ATV, etc. Roving or at the base station. 3. 1.2 GHz is the most popular microwave band, 10 GHz is a close second. 4. The IC-910H is a great radio, 3 bands in one box with 100W on 2M. I love mine. 5. Whatever radio you get today will be obsoleted in a few years and logistically unsupportable a few years after that. That has always been true 6. The real question is if you have the time and $$ to set up a 1.2 GHz station now, AND operate it. 7. Having a 1.2 GHz capability today only allows you to have more ham radio fun. Stan, W1LE Cape Cod FN41sr Jack Barbera wrote: I've been thinking about adding the 1200 MHz band unit to my 910 radio. My dilemma is foremost that will this band be used on any of the new satellites? The rumor is that the 910 radio may be discontinued. The question I have is whether to quickly obtain the module in the event that this is also discontinued. I would really appreciate any thoughts on what action I should take. I do like ICOM products but find it difficult to get information about this type of situation. Thanks for any input. 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: adding UX-910 to radio
In addition: A transverter is always possible to get on the 1.2 GHz band. Use a IC-706 MK2/G or similar radio as a 28 MHz IF. Transverters are available from DEMI and DB6NT and others, or homebrew ala W1GHZ.ORG Use the building block approach instead of the one box doing all. Of course, integrating your system with different building blocks is more complex than a one box does all approach. Stan, W1LE Jack Barbera wrote: I've been thinking about adding the 1200 MHz band unit to my 910 radio. My dilemma is foremost that will this band be used on any of the new satellites? The rumor is that the 910 radio may be discontinued. The question I have is whether to quickly obtain the module in the event that this is also discontinued. I would really appreciate any thoughts on what action I should take. I do like ICOM products but find it difficult to get information about this type of situation. Thanks for any input. 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] Outdoor Box: Further Considerations
Hello The Net: additional considerations: 1. Add a small hole in the bottom to allow the box to vent, 1/8 drill is OK. small enough to keep the bugs out, but enough to prevent a vacuum build up inside or over pressuring. 2. Not all electrical boxes are created equal. The cost effective (cheap) ones are PVC. Some use sheet metal type (self tapping) screws to secure the cover. The better ones use a metal insert that mates a machine screw. The threads last longer. Some PVC material is softer than others that are more brittle. Be careful drilling holes. 3. Typical NEMA ratings are #12 for indoor wet environment, 4X for weather proof/tight. Newer IPC ratings are available but you need to research the IPC #'s. I avoid NEMA 12 enclosues 4. Ebay can be your friend for cost effective larger weatherproof enclosures. Search electrical enclosures. For fiberglass enclosures, BONDO fiberglass filler is easily applied to fill existing holes. Tape over the back side, fill with BONDO, paint to seal. Other enclosures are available in fiberglass ($) aluminum ($$) and stainless steel (). Some with stainless steel hinges and latches to open the cover. 5. design for your environment. Here in New England we have temperature extremes and lotsa rain/snow/wind. A milder environment like So. Cal. will allow a simpler box. I avoid painted steel boxes, even the galvi ones... 6. Another source after Home Depot and Lowes can be www.TekSupply.com a agricultural supply house. Electrical supply houses for tradesmen can also be helpful. Stan, W1LE FN41sr Cape Cod ___ 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] WBFM with the ICOM: IC706MK2 and G, IC-703+
Hello The Net: Can some one confirm that the IC-706MK2 and the 706MK2G can both handle WBFM in the 6M and 2M ham bands ? Objective is to use this rig as an RX IF with a 2.4 GHz down converter and have enough detected BW for a Multi7 TNC to decode the 2.4 GHz sats. As I recall the IC-703+ can not do any WBFM. Thanks Stan, W1LEFN41sr Cape Cod ___ 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: WBFM with the ICOM: IC706MK2 and G, IC-703+
Hello Ian and The Net: TNC7Multi or TNC-7Multi is a better description for a google search I got mine from WIMO. Base unit is a dual speed TNC for 1K2 and 9K6 Bd with RS-232 AND USB serial ports A optional modem is available for 38.4K bd. A little smaller than 2 packs of cigarettes Stan, W1LE Cape Cod FN41sr (almost in FN51) Iain Young, G7III wrote: Hi Stan, Stan, W1LE wrote: Hello The Net: Can some one confirm that the IC-706MK2 and the 706MK2G can both handle WBFM in the 6M and 2M ham bands ? Objective is to use this rig as an RX IF with a 2.4 GHz down converter and have enough detected BW for a Multi7 TNC to decode the 2.4 GHz sats. I'm afraid I can't help with the 706's, but I'm curious about the Multi7 TNC, since I don't think I've ever heard of it. I tried a google search, and came up empty. Is there a web page somewhere describing it. Is it still available somewhere ? 73s Iain ___ 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: 910/KJ6KO AMP
Hello Bob, Time for a sequencer. IC-910H can not handle all of the current needed for the transfer relays, nor the 28 VDC for these relays. Sequencers are made by DEMI, JWM Engineering, ARRL Handbook has them, ARR makes 'em. Grab the MIC PTT line before it gets to the IC-910H, feed it to the sequencer input. Sequencer output #1 supplies DC power to the mast mounted preamplifier. Sequencer output #2 drives the PA PTT input (Sequencer output #3 drives the IPA or transverter PTT input) you do not use... Sequencer #4 output drives the transceiver PTT input on the MIC connector. Feed the MIKE audio directly into the mike connector The DEMI sequencer has isolated relay output contacts with decent ampacity ~ 2A use to switch the 28 VDC to the PA bypass relays. My sequencer is in a separate diecast box. You are at the point where the IC-910H alone, can not do what you want, safely and reliably. Depending on the size of the coaxial RF relays, a DEMI (RVD) relay voltage doubler may be appropriate. Takes in 12 VDC and will toggle a 28 VDC coaxial relay with PTT control. Stan, W1LECape CodFN41sr w7...@comcast.net wrote: Hello Before I do something stupid. I need to know a good way of using my 910 to switch a KJ6KO amp. In my application I am using a series of external relays to switch around the amp for 1296 receive. The Acc socket pin 3 seems to have a low voltage on it. I will be switching a couple of 28V relays as well a switching on the amp. Has anyone been here? 73 Bob W7LRD ___ 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
