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CX2SA > SATDIG 03.10.09 08:33l 1373 Lines 44808 Bytes #999 (0) @ WW
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To : SATDIG@WW
Today's Topics:
1. GJTRACKER Version 2.03 (Lance Collister)
2. Re: Solar Power (I was wrong) (Dave Larsen PhD)
3. Re: Solar Power (I was wrong) (G0MRF@xxx.xxxx
4. Re: Solar Power (I was wrong) (Doug Kuitula)
5. Anusat in trouble (David Giles)
6. KLM 2M-14C (Jim Jerzycke)
7. Re: Arrow antenna reconfiguration results - UPDATE
(Gary "Joe" Mayfield)
8. HRD 5.0 and FT-897 (Randy)
9. Re: KLM 2M-14C (i8cvs)
10. Iceland activation (TF/N2YTF) (Daniel "Nick" Kucij)
11. OFF grid solar system (Thomas McGrane)
12. Re: KLM 2M-14C (Jim Jerzycke)
13. Re: KLM 2M-14C (Jim Jerzycke)
14. FW: AO-7 Mode A (ps8rf Piraja)
15. Re: Arrow antenna reconfiguration results - UPDATE (Jeff Yanko)
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Message: 1
Date: Fri, 02 Oct 2009 19:01:48 +0000
From: Lance Collister <w7gj@x.xxx>
Subject: [amsat-bb] GJTRACKER Version 2.03
To: Magic Band EME <magic@xxxxx.xxx>, AMSAT <amsat-bb@xxxxx.xxx>,
"'moon-net'" <moon-net@xxxxxxxxx.xxxxxx.xxx>, 50 MHZ Mailing List
<50mhz@xxxxxxx.xxx.xxx>
Message-ID: <BLU0-SMTP97D0EB35BB46BA69C625FB89D20@xxx.xxx>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed
Howdy!
I discovered a bug in GJTRACKER when I was using it to calculate some grid
locators for locations in the southern hemisphere. I don't know how many
people
beside me use it for this, but I find it quite convenient ;-) I did want to
spread the word that I have fixed the bug and it is now working properly. The
full corrected current version is 2.0.3 and is available here:
http://bigskyspaces.com/w7gj/GJTRACKER.zip
If you have already installed GJTRACKER on your computer, all you need is to
replace the application file itself:
http://www.bigskyspaces.com/w7gj/GJTRACKER.exe
GL and DX! VY 73, Lance
--
Lance Collister, W7GJ (ex: WN3GPL, WA3GPL, WA1JXN, WA1JXN/C6A, ZF2OC/ZF8,
E51SIX)
P.O. Box 73
Frenchtown, MT 59834 USA
QTH: DN27UB
TEL: (406) 626-5728 URL: http://www.bigskyspaces.com/w7gj
2m DXCC #11, 6m DXCC #815
------------------------------
Message: 2
Date: Fri, 2 Oct 2009 12:16:29 -0700
From: "Dave Larsen PhD" <doc@xxxxxxx.xxx>
Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Solar Power (I was wrong)
To: <bruninga@xxxx.xxx>, "'Greg D.'" <ko6th_greg@xxxxxxx.xxx>,
<ptrowe@xxxxx.xxx>, <amsat-bb@xxxxx.xxx>, <wb3jfs@xxx.xxx>
Message-ID: <001601ca4394$d9655cc0$6401a8c0@xxxx>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"
I think you are also forgot the price of a Building permit - in this
county 1-2K
Doc
----- Original Message -----
From: "Robert Bruninga" <bruninga@xxxx.xxx>
To: "'Greg D.'" <ko6th_greg@xxxxxxx.xxx>; <ptrowe@xxxxx.xxx>;
<amsat-bb@xxxxx.xxx>; <wb3jfs@xxx.xxx>
Sent: Friday, October 02, 2009 11:27 AM
Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Solar Power (I was wrong)
> ... I have... a roof angle exposure that is
> not solar-friendly...
That was another error I had made in my situation.
Again, there is a BIG difference between solar design for
stand-alone battery systems (must point south, optimum angle,
etc) and grid-tie systems that can be anything from SE to SW and
even FLAT and still be only a few percent off peak!.
The economics are entirely different.
The remote/battery system, MUST provide a minimum power on the
worst winter days and weather of the year. It MUST be optimized
for winter.
On the other hand, the grid tie system only has to have a good
AVERAGE power averaged over a year. And you can make more money
in a month of summer sun making money at HIGH payback rates than
you can get all winter (3 months).
Even a FLAT array makes more power in the 3 summer months than
the optimum tilt angle array does.
And lastly, anything pointed SE to S to SW is about the same for
a grid-tie system. You lose at most about 5% SE or SW compared
to South. Again, the reason is not obvious. But any tilted
array is only going to see the sun for 180 degrees of path
across the sky. Even the ideal South facing tilted array does
not see the morning sun nor the evening sun in the summer when
you are getting your most payback.. It only sees the midle 6
hours. Since the sun is up much longer than that most seasons,
then getting those 6 hours averaged before noon (SE) or getting
them in the afternoonn (SW) makes little difference for a
grid-tie array, though, I'd favor SW, since peak electric rates
apply longer in the afternoon than in the morning. So you want
to maximize your power when electricity rates are highest.
Again, I am sharing this off topic with everyone, because I too
learned that my thinking was all wrong based on my previous
experiences with stand-alone power systems and that a
grid-tie-system has completely diffeerent economics to my normal
thinking...
You can play with all the angles and directions for grid-tie
systems on-line with the solar energy calculator here:
Yes, SOUTH with a latitude tilt is best... But based on annual
AVERAGEs:
Southeast only lost 5%
Southwest only lost 5%
Droping the tilt to the angle of my roof 25 deg only lost 1%!
Droping the tilt to FLAT on the ground only lost 14%
(but if I tilt them up to 45deg Sept to April) I GAIN 20%! And
that is a +5% over optimum south.
http://www.nrel.gov/rredc/pvwatts/version1.html
On the other hand, ANY shade will significantlly cut into your
power budget.
Bob, Wb4APR
_______________________________________________
Sent via AMSAT-BB@xxxxx.xxx. 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
------------------------------
Message: 3
Date: Fri, 2 Oct 2009 16:28:37 EDT
From: G0MRF@xxx.xxx
Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Solar Power (I was wrong)
To: amsat-bb@xxxxx.xxx
Message-ID: <ca0.5d832358.37f7bc75@xxx.xxx>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="US-ASCII"
In a message dated 02/10/2009 18:41:31 GMT Standard Time, bruninga@xxxx.xxx
writes:
Again, there is a BIG difference between solar design for
stand-alone battery systems (must point south, optimum angle,
etc) and grid-tie systems that can be anything from SE to SW and
even FLAT and still be only a few percent off peak!.
Sorry Bob, But a few percent is certainly not correct for the
installation I'm responsible for.
I have a set of panels pointing at the horizon at my local school and they
are about 40% down at midday.
The efficiency is directly related to the amount of sun falling on the
panel....well some relationship to the tan of the angle in radians....or
whatever it was I calculated and then measured. Actually the angle to the
sun
is critical for max efficiency. (Obviously missed completely by the %7'!**
who approved this installation.)
_http://www.sunnyportal.com/Templates/PublicPageOverview.aspx?plant=7350f0ac
-1a01-4248-89cc-90607f32caaf&splang=en-GB_
(http://www.sunnyportal.com/Templates/PublicPageOverview.aspx?plant=7350f0ac-1
a01-4248-89cc-90607f32caaf&spla
ng=en-GB)
If you want to check out the efficiency of an installation near you, just
have a quick search of the "publicly available plants" at
_www.sunnyportal.com_ (http://www.sunnyportal.com)
David G0MRF
------------------------------
Message: 4
Date: Fri, 2 Oct 2009 18:03:56 -0400
From: "Doug Kuitula" <ka8qcu@xxxxx.xxx>
Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Solar Power (I was wrong)
To: <bruninga@xxxx.xxx>, "'Greg D.'" <ko6th_greg@xxxxxxx.xxx>,
<ptrowe@xxxxx.xxx>, <amsat-bb@xxxxx.xxx>, <wb3jfs@xxx.xxx>
Message-ID: <002d01ca43ac$3fd46340$67ef6742@xxx>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"
Hi Bob,
While I'm at my summer place in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan (EN56), I
run my satellite station purely by solar power. It is not by any means a
high tech setup, but it works for me. I bought my 15watt solar panel from a
RV (recreational vehicle) center, and charge up two 26 amp hour gel cell
batteries. I also use one of those " $10 Dayton specials" power units with a
17ah battery and 400 watt inverter. This runs the laptop and rotator. But
not for long. I think I've got less than $250 into the whole system. This is
not by any means the most effective or efficient system to have, but it is
portable and works for Field Day.
So if I make contact with you from EN56, it's done from solar power.
73 de Doug KA8QCU
----- Original Message -----
From: "Robert Bruninga" <bruninga@xxxx.xxx>
To: "'Greg D.'" <ko6th_greg@xxxxxxx.xxx>; <ptrowe@xxxxx.xxx>;
<amsat-bb@xxxxx.xxx>; <wb3jfs@xxx.xxx>
Sent: Friday, October 02, 2009 14:27
Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Solar Power (I was wrong)
> > ... I have... a roof angle exposure that is
> > not solar-friendly...
>
> That was another error I had made in my situation.
>
> Again, there is a BIG difference between solar design for
> stand-alone battery systems (must point south, optimum angle,
> etc) and grid-tie systems that can be anything from SE to SW and
> even FLAT and still be only a few percent off peak!.
>
> The economics are entirely different.
>
> The remote/battery system, MUST provide a minimum power on the
> worst winter days and weather of the year. It MUST be optimized
> for winter.
>
> On the other hand, the grid tie system only has to have a good
> AVERAGE power averaged over a year. And you can make more money
> in a month of summer sun making money at HIGH payback rates than
> you can get all winter (3 months).
>
> Even a FLAT array makes more power in the 3 summer months than
> the optimum tilt angle array does.
>
> And lastly, anything pointed SE to S to SW is about the same for
> a grid-tie system. You lose at most about 5% SE or SW compared
> to South. Again, the reason is not obvious. But any tilted
> array is only going to see the sun for 180 degrees of path
> across the sky. Even the ideal South facing tilted array does
> not see the morning sun nor the evening sun in the summer when
> you are getting your most payback.. It only sees the midle 6
> hours. Since the sun is up much longer than that most seasons,
> then getting those 6 hours averaged before noon (SE) or getting
> them in the afternoonn (SW) makes little difference for a
> grid-tie array, though, I'd favor SW, since peak electric rates
> apply longer in the afternoon than in the morning. So you want
> to maximize your power when electricity rates are highest.
>
> Again, I am sharing this off topic with everyone, because I too
> learned that my thinking was all wrong based on my previous
> experiences with stand-alone power systems and that a
> grid-tie-system has completely diffeerent economics to my normal
> thinking...
>
> You can play with all the angles and directions for grid-tie
> systems on-line with the solar energy calculator here:
>
> Yes, SOUTH with a latitude tilt is best... But based on annual
> AVERAGEs:
> Southeast only lost 5%
> Southwest only lost 5%
> Droping the tilt to the angle of my roof 25 deg only lost 1%!
> Droping the tilt to FLAT on the ground only lost 14%
> (but if I tilt them up to 45deg Sept to April) I GAIN 20%! And
> that is a +5% over optimum south.
>
> http://www.nrel.gov/rredc/pvwatts/version1.html
>
> On the other hand, ANY shade will significantlly cut into your
> power budget.
>
> Bob, Wb4APR
>
> _______________________________________________
> Sent via AMSAT-BB@xxxxx.xxx. 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
------------------------------
Message: 5
Date: Sat, 03 Oct 2009 10:21:06 +0930
From: David Giles <vk5dg@xxxxx.xxx>
Subject: [amsat-bb] Anusat in trouble
To: amsat-bb@xxxxx.xxx
Message-ID: <4AC69FFA.7080107@xxxxx.xxx>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed
Hello All,
Just found this article on the web. Looks like we may miss out on using
the amateur payload. As I type the carrier beacon on 137.4MHz is coming
through as strong as other times I have heard it.
73 de David VK5DG
http://www.deccanchronicle.com/chennai/anusat-almost-dead-space-664
------------------------------
Message: 6
Date: Fri, 2 Oct 2009 18:16:04 -0700 (PDT)
From: Jim Jerzycke <kq6ea@xxxxxxx.xxx>
Subject: [amsat-bb] KLM 2M-14C
To: AMSAT-BB <amsat-bb@xxxxx.xxx>
Message-ID: <63451.35018.qm@xxxxxxxx.xxxx.xxx.xxxxx.xxx>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii
I have a new-in-box KLM 2M-14C up on eBay if anybody is interested.
Item number is 230383642566
73, Jim
------------------------------
Message: 7
Date: Fri, 2 Oct 2009 20:27:13 -0500
From: "Gary \"Joe\" Mayfield" <gary_mayfield@xxxxxxx.xxx>
Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Arrow antenna reconfiguration results - UPDATE
To: "'Jeff Yanko'" <wb3jfs@xxx.xxx>, "'Charles Suprin'"
<hamaa1vs@xxxxx.xxx>
Cc: 'Joe' <nss@xxx.xxx>, 'AMSAT-BB' <amsat-bb@xxxxx.xxx>
Message-ID: <COL114-DS18560DBAB56D1054D4E0C38AD10@xxx.xxx>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"
We are missing the easy answer. He had diplexer that was off spec. It
happens.
73,
Joe kk0sd
-----Original Message-----
From: amsat-bb-bounces@xxxxx.xxx [mailto:amsat-bb-bounces@xxxxx.xxxx On
Behalf Of Jeff Yanko
Sent: Thursday, October 01, 2009 4:28 PM
To: Charles Suprin
Cc: Joe; AMSAT-BB; Gary "Joe" Mayfield
Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Arrow antenna reconfiguration results - UPDATE
Hi Charles and the group,
FB on the numbers. Interesting to say the least and thanks for taking the
time to look further into this topic.
Questions? I have a few after looking at these numbers and performing more
observations.
First, are you testing just the diplexer and not the diplexer and the
antenna combined? This could result in an overall number and not just the
diplexer alone. How could there be a large discrepency between preliminary
reports, 2.65dB and .5dB now. Could be equipment calibration, human error,
etc. from previously tested, or attempted testing of the device. I don't
believe any improvements have been made to the Arrow diplexer, but who
knows?
Second, I switched back to the Arrow diplexer and made another comparison
with the Comet diplexer. Again, no comparison, the Comet outperformed. Why
would this happen if the two are pretty close to one another in numbers.
The Comet has .25db loss at VHF and .26 at UHF.
Third, with the Arrow diplexer I wouldn't begin to receive the birds until
almost 3 minutes after AOS, with the Comet diplexer a minute to 1.5 minutes
after AOS. Yes, watch calibrated to WWV and multiple times of acquiring the
birds. I've tried both setups with the HT and D710 and they both show the
same results respectively, Arrow diplexer vs. Comet diplexer. The antenna
and coax remain the same, the difference, the diplexer. May not be test lab
quality but something is proving itself. What is it?
Finally, is it just my Arrow diplexer? Doesn't appear to be shorted or any
defects to it. Actually looks great and assembled very well. I've
encountered others saying the same thing. However, a very noticable
difference to the overall performance.
73,
Jeff WB3JFS
----- Original Message -----
From: Charles Suprin
To: Jeff Yanko
Cc: Joe ; Gary "Joe" Mayfield ; AMSAT-BB
Sent: Thursday, October 01, 2009 1:09 PM
Subject: Re: [amsat-bb] Re: Arrow antenna reconfiguration results - UPDATE
Howdy Jeff,
Someone asked and here we go. A file attachment follows.
Actually the diplexer looks pretty good. Less than half a db of loss at
VHF and around half a dB at UHF. I checked the calibration and that was
within tenth of a dB over the entire range.
Any questions.
Charles
AA1VS
On Sat, Sep 26, 2009 at 6:26 AM, Jeff Yanko <wb3jfs@xxx.xxx> wrote:
Hi Joe and all,
I doubt if the Arrow diplexer has 20dB of loss. If it did, we'd never
receive a signal! :)
I believe somebody here on the -bb will be performing a test on the
Arrow
diplexer using a vector/network analyzer. It will be interesting to say
the
least. There were preliminary reports saying the device had a loss
anywhere
from 2.65 to 2.80dB. That's close enough to 3dB which is technically
half
power loss. Add the loss of a short piece of coax and it will certainly
be
pushed over the 3dB line.
If I recall correctly, cross polarity is also a 3dB loss. I have
noticed
that when I rotate the antenna I might get a stronger downlink but I
never
lose it when I rotate it back. Before, when I would do that it would
drop
once I rotated in either direction from the peak signal. Basically what
is
going on is the lossy device is removed and replaced with a more
efficient
one, that extra net gain you just boosted now shows how the system on
the
antenna side of the diplexer is truly performing.
I don't have an antenna analysis program to perform a test, but what
does a
7 element 440 yagi pattern look like and what is its overall gain?
What we need to do is break down the antenna configuration into 3
segments,
see what their losses and gains are then combine them for the overall
figure. The 3 segment would be the antenna, the diplexer and the coax.
Each one will be tested individually to give an accurate number for
each.
73,
Jeff WB3JFS
----- Original Message -----
From: "Joe" <nss@xxx.xxx>
To: "Gary "Joe" Mayfield" <gary_mayfield@xxxxxxx.xxx>
Cc: "'AMSAT-BB'" <amsat-bb@xxxxx.xxx>
Sent: Friday, September 25, 2009 6:42 PM
Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Arrow antenna reconfiguration results - UPDATE
> as in the texts below, there is something else going on here.
>
> That Diplexor can not be all that bad. two reasons.
>
> How many db down is the front to side of that antenna?
>
> and I can not imaging someone would sell a diplexor that has greater
> than 20 db of losses.
>
> because of the statement that how criticalpolarity was with the
> original, and now the antenna has to be nearly 90 degrees cross
> polarized to make it drop out uhh
>
> that close to 30 db,
>
> at least 20,,
>
> something else is going on here
>
> Gary "Joe" Mayfield wrote:
>
>>>
>>>Another issue I came across was how wide the beamwidth is of the
Arrow
>>>Antenna between the Arrow diplexer and the new diplexer. I was
wondering
>>>
>>>
>>if
>>
>>
>>>this was going to happen and it did. The reason that this happened
was
>>>
>>>
>>with
>>
>>
>>>the old diplexer, the signal attenuated so much that you had to be
>>>pointed
>>>right smack dab on the bird, a few degrees off and you lost the
signal.
>>>Now, with the new diplexer, you can point the beam in the general
>>>
>>>
>>direction
>>
>>
>>>and still copy the bird. In most cases I had to turn the beam 90
degrees
>>>before I completely lost the downlink! Twisting the antenna to make
>>>polarization changes makes absolutely no difference now. This also
>>>attributes to the fact that now I'm copying the entire pass without
>>>
>>>
>>dropouts
>>
>>
>>>or fades. Makes sense. What I've regained over the lossy diplexer
makes
>>>
>>>
>>up
>>
>>
>>>for any polarization differences, etc. for a better copiable signal.
>>>
>>>Next weekend I will have to try more passes and get a feel of how
much
>>>
>>>
>>this
>>
>>
>>>system has changed.
>>>
>>>
>>>73,
>>>
>>>Jeff WB3JFS
>>>Las Vegas, NV
>>>DM26
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>_______________________________________________
>>>Sent via AMSAT-BB@xxxxx.xxx. 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@xxxxx.xxx. 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@xxxxx.xxx. 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
>>
>>
>>
>>------------------------------------------------------------------------
>>
>>
>>No virus found in this incoming message.
>>Checked by AVG - www.avg.com
>>Version: 8.5.416 / Virus Database: 270.13.113/2395 - Release Date:
>>09/25/09 17:52:00
>>
>>
>>
> _______________________________________________
> Sent via AMSAT-BB@xxxxx.xxx. 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@xxxxx.xxx. 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@xxxxx.xxx. 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
------------------------------
Message: 8
Date: Fri, 2 Oct 2009 22:17:03 -0400
From: "Randy" <RSwart1@xxxxx.xx.xxx>
Subject: [amsat-bb] HRD 5.0 and FT-897
To: <amsat-bb@xxxxx.xxx>
Message-ID: <01ba01ca43cf$994704a0$0301a8c0@xxxx>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii"
I need a little help with the software and the rig.
Cant get it to track on tx freq. as far as it going to the rig.
Shows up in the software just fine. I read that I have
To click the TX button in the radio GUI and not my footswitch
And even then the freq shows something different until I unkey.
I am starting to think this software and my radio werent made
For each other ..
Anyone with a lot of patience that's willing to assist?
Really starting to regret buying this FT-897.
OH .. And the receive updates that get sent to the radio
>From the satellite tracker. Is there a way to change the rate
At which the updates are sent?
Should I be trying a different piece of software?
TIA
Randy - N2CUA
------------------------------
Message: 9
Date: Sat, 3 Oct 2009 04:19:42 +0200
From: "i8cvs" <domenico.i8cvs@xxx.xx>
Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: KLM 2M-14C
To: "Jim Jerzycke" <kq6ea@xxxxxxx.xxx>, "AMSAT-BB"
<amsat-bb@xxxxx.xxx>
Message-ID: <001a01ca43cf$f8508c00$0201a8c0@xxx.xx>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"
Hi Jim KQ6EA
I suggest you don't sell the KLM 2M-14C because in my experience it is a
very very nice antenna.
73" de
i8CVS Domenico
----- Original Message -----
From: "Jim Jerzycke" <kq6ea@xxxxxxx.xxx>
To: "AMSAT-BB" <amsat-bb@xxxxx.xxx>
Sent: Saturday, October 03, 2009 3:16 AM
Subject: [amsat-bb] KLM 2M-14C
> I have a new-in-box KLM 2M-14C up on eBay if anybody is interested.
> Item number is 230383642566
>
> 73, Jim
> _______________________________________________
> Sent via AMSAT-BB@xxxxx.xxx. 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
------------------------------
Message: 10
Date: Fri, 2 Oct 2009 22:38:00 -0400
From: "Daniel \"Nick\" Kucij" <dnkucij@xxxxxxxxxxx.xxx>
Subject: [amsat-bb] Iceland activation (TF/N2YTF)
To: amsat-bb@xxxxx.xxx
Message-ID: <19A6E98A-9DB9-4E62-BD2D-1D7DB742F647@xxxxxxxxxxx.xxx>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII; format=flowed; delsp=yes
Tom Tumino, N2YTF is currently operating portable from Iceland as TF/
N2YTF.
From his QRZ.com page:
"Iceland! I will be operating the FM satellites and HF (where time
allows) from Iceland until Oct. 5th. Expect me to be on the birds QRP
portable, sometimes with an Arrow Antenna for any passes between 1000
and 0000 UTC. Please help get the word out about my satellite
operations."
Check his QRZ page for more information.
Nick KB1RVT
------------------------------
Message: 11
Date: Fri, 2 Oct 2009 19:39:56 -0700
From: "Thomas McGrane" <n2oeq@xxxxxx.xxx>
Subject: [amsat-bb] OFF grid solar system
To: amsat-bb@xxxxx.xxx
Message-ID: <02f1d96a6a2247d886751f6d1e4b97d4.n2oeq@xxxxxx.xxx>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=utf-8
The grid is vulnerable as a system. We have to stop always thinking
about being connected to or relying on the utility grid. Think in terms
of building an independant 12 volt DC system (low voltage) for the
average dwelling to operate independant of the grid by charging
batteries from solar or wind and utilizing the energy real time or
later from the batteries. It seems everyone has visions of large
expensive rooftop systems but starting small and building up over time
will reduce the utility bill by substitution.
We need to be energy independant on a small scale as well as looking at
the big picture. Small systems can easily run lights, TV?s, radios,
even a small refridgerator for essentials. You would still need the
grid power for large loads like heat, large refridgerators, etc but you
can have a seperate system to rely on if you suffer some calamity.
With the advent of the ?smart? grid, you dont want to be connected to
the grid. Remember, the wires are antennas as well as conducting
electricity. We owe our reliance on a large electrical system to
Nickolai Tesla who developed high voltage alternating current power
systems that won out over Thomas Edisons Direct Current system around
the turn of the last century. The idea was to minmize power loss over
long distances. Therefore we should all promote local or household Low
voltage DC solar or wind systems to reduce the use of grid power and
for much better reliability.
Through the years I have built a very economical system comprised of
several solar panels with a capacity of about 130 watts that
automatically charge 6 large deep cycle and regular batteries from
which I operate some radios , lights and in the event of loss of
utility power, a small refridgerator. I also have a couple of cheap
store bought DC to AC inverters if I need to operate an AC device,
Solar panels have come down in price dramatically and production
capabity is expanding, so start now. Think independant and start small
instead of suffering mega system price hesitance.
A world of 12 volt dc devices are available from hardware, marine,
automotive and internet sources. You just have to start.
Be the first on your block to confuse the lineman who show up during a
power failure. I did.
I posted the above text on the new york times "Green Inc" energy blog
back on september 23, 2009 as a comment to an article regarding solar
power in africa. The internal discharge in a deep cycle battery is only
about 50 milliamps which I consider insignificant.
I dont want to be connected to the grid which I consider "STUPID" and
you dont either. Dont follow, think for yourselves.
Think about this..... brain waves operate up to about 20 cycles per
second, imagine what 60 cycles is doing to you and the world.
Pat
------------------------------
Message: 12
Date: Fri, 2 Oct 2009 21:30:35 -0700 (PDT)
From: Jim Jerzycke <kq6ea@xxxxxxx.xxx>
Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: KLM 2M-14C
To: AMSAT-BB <amsat-bb@xxxxx.xxx>, i8cvs <domenico.i8cvs@xxx.xx>
Message-ID: <253154.3856.qm@xxxxxxxx.xxxx.xxx.xxxxx.xxx>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=iso-8859-1
I agree that's a very nice antenna. The 70cm version I have works very well
and appears to be made nicely, although the polarity switcher is not
weatherproofed very well. When I bought these two antennas, and a G5400
rotator, none of the equipment had ever been used. The 70cm antennas was
assembled, but other than Field Day, it was never used outdoors.
The fact is that I have two new Gulf Alpha antennas that I'll be using, and
the KLM is surplus to my needs.
73, Jim
--- On Fri, 10/2/09, i8cvs <domenico.i8cvs@xxx.xx> wrote:
> From: i8cvs <domenico.i8cvs@xxx.xx>
> Subject: Re: [amsat-bb] KLM 2M-14C
> To: "Jim Jerzycke" <kq6ea@xxxxxxx.xxx>, "AMSAT-BB" <amsat-bb@xxxxx.xxx>
> Date: Friday, October 2, 2009, 7:19 PM
> Hi Jim? KQ6EA
>
> I suggest you don't sell the KLM 2M-14C because in my
> experience it is a
> very very nice antenna.
>
> 73" de
>
> i8CVS Domenico
>
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: "Jim Jerzycke" <kq6ea@xxxxxxx.xxx>
> To: "AMSAT-BB" <amsat-bb@xxxxx.xxx>
> Sent: Saturday, October 03, 2009 3:16 AM
> Subject: [amsat-bb] KLM 2M-14C
>
>
> > I have a new-in-box KLM 2M-14C up on eBay if anybody
> is interested.
> > Item number is 230383642566
> >
> > 73, Jim
> > _______________________________________________
> > Sent via AMSAT-BB@xxxxx.xxx.
> 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
>
>
------------------------------
Message: 13
Date: Fri, 2 Oct 2009 21:36:03 -0700 (PDT)
From: Jim Jerzycke <kq6ea@xxxxxxx.xxx>
Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: KLM 2M-14C
To: Alan VE4YZ <ve4yz@xxx.xxx>
Cc: AMSAT-BB <amsat-bb@xxxxx.xxx>
Message-ID: <783252.9500.qm@xxxxxxxx.xxxx.xxx.xxxxx.xxx>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=iso-8859-1
I've also got a KEPS downcoverter, AND a K5GNA.
And I have one of those really nice 1M dish antennas from that guy in
Pennsylvania, all never used, except for the K5GNA, which was used at Field
Day on a 2M dish when AO-40 was still alive.
When I operate satellites from my apartment, I use my terrestrial 2M/70cm
antennas, and pick passes that don't go above 15* or so. They work very
well, and surprise a lot of people when I tell them what I'm using.
73, Jim KQ6EA
--- On Fri, 10/2/09, Alan VE4YZ <ve4yz@xxx.xxx> wrote:
> From: Alan VE4YZ <ve4yz@xxx.xxx>
> Subject: RE: [amsat-bb] Re: KLM 2M-14C
> To: "'i8cvs'" <domenico.i8cvs@xxx.xx>, "'Jim Jerzycke'" <kq6ea@xxxxxxx.xxx>
> Date: Friday, October 2, 2009, 8:50 PM
> Hi Dom and Jim...
>
> I agree with the comments about the quality of the KLM. But
> do not agree
> with the idea of keeping surplus ham equipment.? We
> have a shrinking
> population of amateurs, and, in this area specifically
> EN19, fewer and few
> amateurs interested in satellites, and an older and older
> population of hams
> getting out by choice or circumstances.
>
> The problem I face is to not compete with others when
> getting rid of my
> surplus equipment on swap 'n shops, flea markets and eBay
> where the prices
> would be driven down to all the sellers' detriment.?
> Of course, if I was a
> buyer, too much supply is good.
>
> I'm sitting on too much depreciating equipment now that I
> can't get rid of
> so I might as well give it away free - and I do that.
>
> A new in the box KLM should fetch a good price and easy to
> ship.???Used, the
> same antenna is a pain in the butt to get rid of unless
> sold locally.
> Disassembling a yagi and shipping - yuk! And the cheap ham
> community wants
> it for next to nothing.
>
> If you get a decent offer - take it; it will be worth less
> ( not worthless )
> tomorrow.
>
> The only major items I'm keeping is a FT-736r with the
> 1.2GHz module - the
> 1.2 being worth more than the rest of the radio and a
> second G5400b
> AZ/EL/Controller and a couple of Gulfalpha dual banders and
> M2 matching tees
> that get dragged out once a year for field day.? But
> every time I look at
> them a see a lot of money tied up doing nothing and swear
> I'll do an eBay on
> them.
>
> By this time next year I expect I'll have 3 complete
> satellite setups and be
> even madder about not unload the stuff while it had some
> value.? Part of my
> surplus is dumb purchasing decisions.? I have a KEPS
> dual band down
> converter for 2.4GHz that I should have never bought but I
> did because a
> fellow hams has his mother living in Germany and it was
> easy to get it that
> way.? 2 extra K5GNA down converters for what?? I
> am given some of this by
> guys going out of the hobby for various reasons including
> SK.
>
> Very sad to see good equipment not used and depreciating in
> value every day.
>
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: amsat-bb-bounces@xxxxx.xxx
> [mailto:amsat-bb-bounces@xxxxx.xxxx
> On
> Behalf Of i8cvs
> Sent: October 2, 2009 9:20 PM
> To: Jim Jerzycke; AMSAT-BB
> Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: KLM 2M-14C
>
> Hi Jim? KQ6EA
>
> I suggest you don't sell the KLM 2M-14C because in my
> experience it is a
> very very nice antenna.
>
> 73" de
>
> i8CVS Domenico
>
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: "Jim Jerzycke" <kq6ea@xxxxxxx.xxx>
> To: "AMSAT-BB" <amsat-bb@xxxxx.xxx>
> Sent: Saturday, October 03, 2009 3:16 AM
> Subject: [amsat-bb] KLM 2M-14C
>
>
> > I have a new-in-box KLM 2M-14C up on eBay if anybody
> is interested.
> > Item number is 230383642566
> >
> > 73, Jim
> > _______________________________________________
> > Sent via AMSAT-BB@xxxxx.xxx.
> 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@xxxxx.xxx.
> 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
>
>
------------------------------
Message: 14
Date: Sat, 3 Oct 2009 08:52:07 +0300
From: ps8rf Piraja <ps8rf@xxxxxxx.xxx>
Subject: [amsat-bb] FW: AO-7 Mode A
To: <amsat-bb@xxxxx.xxx>
Message-ID: <SNT121-W76A6FCA6A9F79BDE84AE8E0D10@xxx.xxx>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"
Hello Fabiano.
We are waiting for you in the mode "A".
73
Piraja, PS8RF
_________________________________________________________________
Voc? sabia que pode acessar o Messenger direto do seu Hotmail? Descubra como!
http://www.microsoft.com/brasil/windows/windowslive/products/tutoriais.aspx
------------------------------
Message: 15
Date: Fri, 2 Oct 2009 23:26:38 -0700
From: "Jeff Yanko" <wb3jfs@xxx.xxx>
Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Arrow antenna reconfiguration results - UPDATE
To: "Gary \"Joe\" Mayfield" <gary_mayfield@xxxxxxx.xxx>, "'Charles
Suprin'" <hamaa1vs@xxxxx.xxx>
Cc: 'Joe' <nss@xxx.xxx>, 'AMSAT-BB' <amsat-bb@xxxxx.xxx>
Message-ID: <EAADB1D6463D459D904A2D2DF08B9737@xxxxxxxx>
Content-Type: text/plain; format=flowed; charset="iso-8859-1";
reply-type=original
Could very well be.
73,
Jeff WB3JFS
----- Original Message -----
From: "Gary "Joe" Mayfield" <gary_mayfield@xxxxxxx.xxx>
To: "'Jeff Yanko'" <wb3jfs@xxx.xxx>; "'Charles Suprin'" <hamaa1vs@xxxxx.xxx>
Cc: "'Joe'" <nss@xxx.xxx>; "'AMSAT-BB'" <amsat-bb@xxxxx.xxx>
Sent: Friday, October 02, 2009 6:27 PM
Subject: RE: [amsat-bb] Re: Arrow antenna reconfiguration results - UPDATE
> We are missing the easy answer. He had diplexer that was off spec. It
> happens.
>
> 73,
> Joe kk0sd
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: amsat-bb-bounces@xxxxx.xxx [mailto:amsat-bb-bounces@xxxxx.xxxx On
> Behalf Of Jeff Yanko
> Sent: Thursday, October 01, 2009 4:28 PM
> To: Charles Suprin
> Cc: Joe; AMSAT-BB; Gary "Joe" Mayfield
> Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Arrow antenna reconfiguration results - UPDATE
>
> Hi Charles and the group,
>
> FB on the numbers. Interesting to say the least and thanks for taking the
> time to look further into this topic.
>
> Questions? I have a few after looking at these numbers and performing
> more
> observations.
>
> First, are you testing just the diplexer and not the diplexer and the
> antenna combined? This could result in an overall number and not just the
> diplexer alone. How could there be a large discrepency between
> preliminary
> reports, 2.65dB and .5dB now. Could be equipment calibration, human
> error,
> etc. from previously tested, or attempted testing of the device. I don't
> believe any improvements have been made to the Arrow diplexer, but who
> knows?
>
> Second, I switched back to the Arrow diplexer and made another comparison
> with the Comet diplexer. Again, no comparison, the Comet outperformed.
> Why
> would this happen if the two are pretty close to one another in numbers.
> The Comet has .25db loss at VHF and .26 at UHF.
>
> Third, with the Arrow diplexer I wouldn't begin to receive the birds until
> almost 3 minutes after AOS, with the Comet diplexer a minute to 1.5
> minutes
> after AOS. Yes, watch calibrated to WWV and multiple times of acquiring
> the
> birds. I've tried both setups with the HT and D710 and they both show the
> same results respectively, Arrow diplexer vs. Comet diplexer. The antenna
> and coax remain the same, the difference, the diplexer. May not be test
> lab
> quality but something is proving itself. What is it?
>
> Finally, is it just my Arrow diplexer? Doesn't appear to be shorted or
> any
> defects to it. Actually looks great and assembled very well. I've
> encountered others saying the same thing. However, a very noticable
> difference to the overall performance.
>
>
> 73,
>
> Jeff WB3JFS
>
>
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: Charles Suprin
> To: Jeff Yanko
> Cc: Joe ; Gary "Joe" Mayfield ; AMSAT-BB
> Sent: Thursday, October 01, 2009 1:09 PM
> Subject: Re: [amsat-bb] Re: Arrow antenna reconfiguration results -
> UPDATE
>
>
> Howdy Jeff,
>
> Someone asked and here we go. A file attachment follows.
>
> Actually the diplexer looks pretty good. Less than half a db of loss at
> VHF and around half a dB at UHF. I checked the calibration and that was
> within tenth of a dB over the entire range.
>
> Any questions.
>
> Charles
> AA1VS
>
>
> On Sat, Sep 26, 2009 at 6:26 AM, Jeff Yanko <wb3jfs@xxx.xxx> wrote:
>
> Hi Joe and all,
>
> I doubt if the Arrow diplexer has 20dB of loss. If it did, we'd never
> receive a signal! :)
>
> I believe somebody here on the -bb will be performing a test on the
> Arrow
> diplexer using a vector/network analyzer. It will be interesting to
> say
> the
> least. There were preliminary reports saying the device had a loss
> anywhere
> from 2.65 to 2.80dB. That's close enough to 3dB which is technically
> half
> power loss. Add the loss of a short piece of coax and it will
> certainly
> be
> pushed over the 3dB line.
>
> If I recall correctly, cross polarity is also a 3dB loss. I have
> noticed
> that when I rotate the antenna I might get a stronger downlink but I
> never
> lose it when I rotate it back. Before, when I would do that it would
> drop
> once I rotated in either direction from the peak signal. Basically
> what
> is
> going on is the lossy device is removed and replaced with a more
> efficient
> one, that extra net gain you just boosted now shows how the system on
> the
> antenna side of the diplexer is truly performing.
>
> I don't have an antenna analysis program to perform a test, but what
> does a
> 7 element 440 yagi pattern look like and what is its overall gain?
>
> What we need to do is break down the antenna configuration into 3
> segments,
> see what their losses and gains are then combine them for the overall
> figure. The 3 segment would be the antenna, the diplexer and the coax.
> Each one will be tested individually to give an accurate number for
> each.
>
>
>
> 73,
>
>
> Jeff WB3JFS
> ----- Original Message -----
>
> From: "Joe" <nss@xxx.xxx>
> To: "Gary "Joe" Mayfield" <gary_mayfield@xxxxxxx.xxx>
> Cc: "'AMSAT-BB'" <amsat-bb@xxxxx.xxx>
> Sent: Friday, September 25, 2009 6:42 PM
> Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Arrow antenna reconfiguration results - UPDATE
>
>
>
> > as in the texts below, there is something else going on here.
> >
> > That Diplexor can not be all that bad. two reasons.
> >
> > How many db down is the front to side of that antenna?
> >
> > and I can not imaging someone would sell a diplexor that has greater
> > than 20 db of losses.
> >
> > because of the statement that how criticalpolarity was with the
> > original, and now the antenna has to be nearly 90 degrees cross
> > polarized to make it drop out uhh
> >
> > that close to 30 db,
> >
> > at least 20,,
> >
> > something else is going on here
> >
> > Gary "Joe" Mayfield wrote:
> >
> >>>
> >>>Another issue I came across was how wide the beamwidth is of the
> Arrow
> >>>Antenna between the Arrow diplexer and the new diplexer. I was
> wondering
> >>>
> >>>
> >>if
> >>
> >>
> >>>this was going to happen and it did. The reason that this happened
> was
> >>>
> >>>
> >>with
> >>
> >>
> >>>the old diplexer, the signal attenuated so much that you had to be
> >>>pointed
> >>>right smack dab on the bird, a few degrees off and you lost the
> signal.
> >>>Now, with the new diplexer, you can point the beam in the general
> >>>
> >>>
> >>direction
> >>
> >>
> >>>and still copy the bird. In most cases I had to turn the beam 90
> degrees
> >>>before I completely lost the downlink! Twisting the antenna to make
> >>>polarization changes makes absolutely no difference now. This also
> >>>attributes to the fact that now I'm copying the entire pass without
> >>>
> >>>
> >>dropouts
> >>
> >>
> >>>or fades. Makes sense. What I've regained over the lossy diplexer
> makes
> >>>
> >>>
> >>up
> >>
> >>
> >>>for any polarization differences, etc. for a better copiable signal.
> >>>
> >>>Next weekend I will have to try more passes and get a feel of how
> much
> >>>
> >>>
> >>this
> >>
> >>
> >>>system has changed.
> >>>
> >>>
> >>>73,
> >>>
> >>>Jeff WB3JFS
> >>>Las Vegas, NV
> >>>DM26
> >>>
> >>>
> >>>
> >>>
> >>>
> >>>
> >>>_______________________________________________
> >>>Sent via AMSAT-BB@xxxxx.xxx. 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@xxxxx.xxx. 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@xxxxx.xxx. 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
> >>
> >>
> >>
>
>>>------------------------------------------------------------------------
> >>
> >>
> >>No virus found in this incoming message.
> >>Checked by AVG - www.avg.com
> >>Version: 8.5.416 / Virus Database: 270.13.113/2395 - Release Date:
> >>09/25/09 17:52:00
> >>
> >>
> >>
> > _______________________________________________
> > Sent via AMSAT-BB@xxxxx.xxx. 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@xxxxx.xxx. 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@xxxxx.xxx. 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@xxxxx.xxx. Opinions expressed are those of the author.
Not an AMSAT member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program!
http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb
End of AMSAT-BB Digest, Vol 4, Issue 512
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