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CX2SA > SATDIG 01.03.10 23:04l 1373 Lines 48230 Bytes #999 (0) @ WW
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Today's Topics:
1. Re: Wish List, The Ideal VHF/UHF Sat Rig (John Geiger)
2. Re: AO-51 (John Becker, W?JAB)
3. Re: Wish List, The Ideal VHF/UHF Sat Rig (MM)
4. Re: Wish List, The Ideal VHF/UHF Sat Rig (Fabio Roccatagliata)
5. Re: Wish List, The Ideal VHF/UHF Sat Rig (francesco messineo)
6. Re: AO-51 (Andrew Glasbrenner)
7. Re: Wish List, The Ideal VHF/UHF Sat Rig (Bob- W7LRD)
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Message: 1
Date: Mon, 1 Mar 2010 12:02:23 -0800 (PST)
From: John Geiger <aa5jg@xxxxx.xxx>
Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Wish List, The Ideal VHF/UHF Sat Rig
To: "Mark L. Hammond" <marklhammond@xxxxx.xxx>, MM <ka1rrw@xxxxx.xxx>,
Ken Ernandes <n2wwd@xxxxxxxxxx.xxx>
Cc: amsat-bb@xxxxx.xxx
Message-ID: <198237.29985.qm@xxxxxxxx.xxxx.xxx.xxxxx.xxx>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=utf-8
It would need to be marketed, in addition to being a satellite rig, as a
high performance, contest quality, VHF/UHF rig aimed at the highest level
VHF ops. The casual weak signal op is going to stick with the FT897D and
Icom 7000.
73s John AA5JG
--- On Mon, 3/1/10, Ken Ernandes <n2wwd@xxxxxxxxxx.xxx> wrote:
> From: Ken Ernandes <n2wwd@xxxxxxxxxx.xxx>
> Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Wish List, The Ideal VHF/UHF Sat Rig
> To: "Mark L. Hammond" <marklhammond@xxxxx.xxx>, "MM" <ka1rrw@xxxxx.xxx>
> Cc: amsat-bb@xxxxx.xxx
> Date: Monday, March 1, 2010, 1:47 PM
> I'm not normally one to throw cold
> water on creative ideas, but I will put myself in the
> position of the potential manufacturer.? What any
> manufacturer would need to even contemplate this project is
> good answers to a few basic questions:
>
> 1.? Can I come up with a design to these
> specifications that I can sell in the realistic price range
> of the typical amateur operator?
> 2.? Is there a large enough market out there that I
> can make a profit on this exercise?
>
> My guess is the manufacturers wouldn't touch this one with
> 3.048-meter pole without at least one functioning high
> altitude satellite on orbit.? I realize these are
> frustrating times, but I think you'll need to come up with
> more than just a wish list.? Perhaps a group could get
> together and prototype portions to make a plausible case
> that this can be built economically.
>
> Can it be done?? Probably...? But those who
> really want it will probably need to invest a lot of sweat
> equity to prove it.
>
> 73, Ken N2WWD
>
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> >From: "Mark L. Hammond" <marklhammond@xxxxx.xxx>
> >Sent: Mar 1, 2010 1:55 PM
> >To: MM <ka1rrw@xxxxx.xxx>
> >Cc: amsat-bb@xxxxx.xxx
> >Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Wish List, The Ideal VHF/UHF
> Sat Rig
> >
> >How about IF tap (10.7MHz) and high speed packet ready
> (up to say, 76k
> >or faster)?
> >
> >(Maybe I missed it, but I don't think I saw those 2
> features...)
> >
> >73,
> >
> >Mark N8MH
> >
> >On Mon, Mar 1, 2010 at 1:44 PM, MM <ka1rrw@xxxxx.xxx>
> wrote:
> >> My Ideal Competition Grade VHF/UHF Radio Wish
> list.
> >>
> >> It seems we are long over do for a Competition
> grade high performance VHF/UHF transceiver, which can also
> be used for Satellite operations. ? There are several
> competition grade HF transceivers on the market, however
> there are no high end competition grade VHF/UHF/Satellite
> systems on the marker.
> >>
> >> Most of the rigs I have seen ?which support
> VHF/UHF are either HF rigs that have had VHF/UHF slapped on,
> or low end VHF/UHF rigs, with HF slapped on.
> >>
> >> If we want the Amateur Radio manufactures to build
> us a "GREAT" VHF/UHF/Satellite system, then we need to tell
> them what we need.
> >>
> >> Here are some suggestions. ?Constructive comments
> welcome.
> >>
> >> This radio does not exist.
> >> If the manufactures are interested in providing a
> new state of the art VHF/UHF radio to the Amateur Radio
> community, here is one opinion of what should be in next
> Competition Grade VHF/UHF Transceiver and what should not be
> in the radio.
> >>
> >> I am going to give this fictional radio a name
> HR-956-Pro.
> >>
> >>
> >> What do we need:
> >>
> >> ? ? ? ? We need a competition grade VHF/UHF
> transceiver that will support Terrestrial-DX, Satellite and
> EME operations (Voice, CW and ?Digital-JT65).
> >> ? ? ? ? The HR-956-Pro, needs to be able to
> interface with modern computers (HTML Browser, USB and or
> CAT-5).
> >> ? ? ? ? The HR-956-Pro, needs to able to
> interface with modern Externally mounted Pre-amplifier (both
> power feeds and transmitter sequencing).
> >> ? ? ? ? The HR-956-Pro, need to be able to
> interface with modern Solid State Amplifiers and Tube based
> amplifiers. ?The RF output per band needs to be
> standardized with the Amplifier manufactures to prevent
> transceiver and amplifier failures due to sequencing
> problems and RF mismatching.
> >> ? ? ? ? TX/RX Sequencer built-in, to control
> external Preamps, Amplifies and other accessories
> (programmable).
> >>
> >> Receiver:
> >> Of course we need a "Great" receiver, not another
> mediocre receiver.
> >> Each receiver for each band needs to be a "Great"
> performer.
> >>
> >> No Birdies:
> >> On a HF rig, a few Birdies do not usually cause
> serious issues, since the HF users are often listening to
> signals "Above" the noise floor. ?On a Satellite Radio, we
> are often listening to signals 10-30 dB, "Below" the Noise
> floor. ?Internally generated birdies are a serious problem
> for weak signal VHF/UHF operations.
> >>
> >> Filters:
> >> Each mode will need its own selection of DSP
> filters. ?The filters would also affect one of the
> Line-level outputs to the external PC. ?There are times
> when want to send Filtered or unfiltered audio to your
> external PC for Digital signal processing. ?One of the
> line-level outputs should be taped before the HR-956-Pro
> Filters, the other line-level output should be taped after
> the HR-956-Pro filters. ?The TX and RX filters should be
> independently selectable.
> >> The Filters need to be tested to verify they will
> support Satellite Mode-J (TX on 2-meters while listening on
> 435-438)
> >>
> >> Example:
> >> FM-5k, ?Filters 15k, 10k and 8k filters.
> >> AM ? ? ? ? ? ? ?Filters 10k, 6k, 3k, etc.
> >> SSB ? ? ? ? ? ? Filters 4.0k, 3.0k, 2.5k,
> 2.0k, etc.
> >>
> >> Other Modes:
> >> CW, FM-2.5k, Data
> >>
> >> Audio Quality:
> >> Life is too short for QRP or Poor Audio.
> >> It's not the number of contacts that?s
> important, it?s the quality of the contact.
> >> On the audio side, the HR-956-Pro needs to be able
> to support a wider range of audio through most of the
> stages. ?Of course the radio needs to meet FCC and other
> requirements, however we can still design the radio to
> deliver a wider bandwidth of good sounding audio.
> >> Let's shoot for 100-4000 Hz, on both TX and RX
> audio circuits. ?This will also mean, that a better stock
> microphone design will be required.
> >>
> >>
> >> VHF / UHF Bands built-in, with competition grade
> TX/RX:
> >> 6-meters ? ? ? ?50-54
> >> 2-meters ? ? ? ?144-148
> >> 70-cm ? ? ? ? ? 420 - 450
> >> 23-cm ? ? ? ? ? 1280 - 1300
> >> (All frequencies localized for each country)
> >>
> >> Transmitter outputs:
> >> A high power transceiver is less desirable than a
> low power transceiver.
> >>
> >> Let me explain:
> >> For serious Terrestrial DX and EME you need to run
> more than 100 watts. A VHF/UHF transceiver designed for high
> power ( 100 watt range) transmitting, would not be
> compatible with third-party amplifiers or pre-amplifiers.
> >>
> >> Most VHF/UHF amps are designed for 25 or 50 watts
> maximum input.
> >>
> >> The manufactures of Transceivers and Amplifies
> need to agree upon a set of standard power level so the
> third-party amplifier manufactures can design properly
> matched Amplifiers and pre-amplifiers. This will also help
> reduce the number of transceiver and amplifier failures
> caused by mismatched RF settings.
> >>
> >> Suggested standards for VHF/UHF bases stations:
> >> 6 Meters 50 watts
> >> 2 Meters 25 watts
> >> 70 cm ? 25 watts
> >> 900 mc 10 watts
> >> 1.2 gig 10 watts
> >>
> >> The duty cycle of the competition grade system,
> will also need to be greater than a 70% ?duty cycle.
> >> A typical EME link running JT65 requires a 50% for
> 10-30 minutes at a time. ?The transistors and cooling
> system needs to be designed accordingly to meet the
> competition grade requirements.
> >>
> >>
> >> HR-956-Pro Must have list:
> >>
> >> Spectrum display screen:
> >> ? ? ? ?I can't imagine building a new
> competition grade system without this feature.
> >> ? ? ? ?It would be nice to see the band pass,
> before and after the filter stages.
> >>
> >> Full computer remote control:
> >> Memory read/Read and save. ?All memory channels
> options must be exportable to a CSV or similar file,
> including TX and RX frequencies, settings, including
> Repeater or split frequency settings.
> >> All protocols must be Public protocols, no
> propriety software or licenses.
> >>
> >>
> >> Doppler Control (Manual):
> >>
> >> LEO SSB satellites are some of the hardest
> satellites two work because of the amount of Doppler
> frequency change per second. ?Satellite Mode-B is very hard
> (70 cm Uplink and 2-meter Downlink). ?While you are talking
> through a SSB Mod-B satellite, you need to be simultaneously
> adjusting your transmitter with every other word, in order
> to keep your downlink signal centered inside the
> transponder.
> >>
> >> The Yasue FT-736R Satellite control knob, seems to
> work very well with dual VFO's and provides you the ability
> to quickly change either TX or RX to compensate for Doppler
> (among other features). ?The Knob style is much easier to
> use than "Buttons". ?I found the Doppler VFO correction on
> some newer radios to be very frustrating.
> >> The new HR-956-Pro must have the Yasue FT-736R
> control Knob and it must be functional for both VFO's and
> Memory Channels.
> >>
> >>
> >> DSP Noise tools:
> >> The usual stuff.
> >>
> >>
> >> FM Center Tuning Meter:
> >> Many of the new satellites are LEO's (Low Earth
> Orbit), and many of these satellites are running FM-5k.
> ?The reason for FM is because the Doppler causes the 70cm
> band to drift over 20, kHz during a 10-20 minute pass. The
> LEO SSB satellites using Mode J or Mode B are difficult to
> use because of the large Doppler change. ?The FM mode,
> ?helps reduce the impact caused by the higher Doppler.
> >>
> >> The FM Center Tuning Meter feature is a "must
> have" for a Satellite radio.
> >> When the FM satellite comes in range, just look at
> the FM meter and tune the receiver until the needle is
> centered and you now know the exact downlink for that
> Satellite. ? If the needle is left, turn the RX knob slowly
> Right, ?If the needle is Right, turn the RX knob slowly
> left, very simple.
> >> The Yaesu FT-736R has a FM Center Tuning Meter and
> it makes working FM satellites much easier. ?The IC-910 has
> a blinking light to tell you your FM satellite receiver
> frequency has drifted. Unfortunately, the blinking light is
> useless in telling you if your frequency is high or low.
> >>
> >>
> >> HR-956-Pro, Nice to have list:
> >>
> >> General coverage receiver (50 - 1000 megacycles):
> >> The addition of a general coverage receiver would
> help with the sales of the HR-956-Pro. ?However, it is very
> important that the general coverage receiver, NOT degrade
> the performance of the satellite receivers. ?We are not
> trying to build a super police scanner. One possible
> suggestion would-be to make the general coverage receiver a
> separate circuit board, which would be connected to a
> separate antenna port and thus would not degraded from the
> performance of the satellite receivers.
> >>
> >> VHF / UHF Optional bands or Transverter:
> >> The Amateur radio community is constantly
> experimenting with new bands. ?It would be nice to have a
> Transverter module or expansion module for future bands.
> ?In the USA these bands are becoming popular, 220mc, 900
> mc, etc
> >>
> >> (All frequencies localized for each country)
> >>
> >>
> >> Size is important:
> >> To hold the hardware, band scope, filters and make
> the buttons easily accessible, a box about the size of the
> IC-756 product seems to be the right size.
> >>
> >> What should not be in the HR-956-Pro.
> >>
> >> No HF:
> >> No access to frequencies below 50 megacycles.
> >> The addition of HF to a satellite radio would only
> degrade the performance of the weak signal satellite
> receivers.
> >> HF would also add to the cost of the transceiver
> and reduce its sales potential.
> >> A competition grade VHF/UHF transceiver has no use
> for HF.
> >> HF would result in the radio being just another
> mediocre transceiver.
> >>
> >> No obsolete Serial ports:
> >> ?No RS-232 or TTL.
> >> These devices are so last century.
> >>
> >> DSTAR:
> >> The DSTAR mode is fun, I use it often and I have
> even been pushing ARISS to install it on the International
> Space Station. ?As much as I like this mode, it is not a
> requirement for a competition grade satellite system. ?I
> would much rather have the money put into making the VHF/UHF
> receivers the best possible.
> >>
> >>
> >> How much are we willing to pay for the
> HR-956-Pro:
> >>
> >> That depends on the performance, suggest price
> $2000 - $3000 USD
> >>
> >> Closing:
> >>
> >> If anyone knows of such a radio I would be
> interested to know who makes it.
> >>
> >>
> >> Sincerely
> >>
> >> WF1F ?Miles
> >> www.marexmg.org
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >> _______________________________________________
> >> 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
> >>
> >
> >
> >
> >--
> >Mark L. Hammond [N8MH]
> >
> >_______________________________________________
> >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: 2
Date: Mon, 01 Mar 2010 14:04:17 -0600
From: "John Becker, W?JAB" <w0jab@xxxxxxxxx.xxx>
Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: AO-51
To: amsat-bb@xxxxx.xxx
Message-ID: <5.2.0.9.2.20100301140257.041feaa0@xxxx.xxxxxxxxx.xxx>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii"
So just how close was close?
John, W0JAB
------------------------------
Message: 3
Date: Mon, 1 Mar 2010 12:12:45 -0800 (PST)
From: MM <ka1rrw@xxxxx.xxx>
Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Wish List, The Ideal VHF/UHF Sat Rig
To: "Mark L. Hammond" <marklhammond@xxxxx.xxx>, Andrew Glasbrenner
<glasbrenner@xxxxxxxxxx.xxx>, John Geiger <aa5jg@xxxxx.xxx>
Cc: amsat-bb@xxxxx.xxx
Message-ID: <843171.82273.qm@xxxxxxxx.xxxx.xxx.xxxxx.xxx>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=iso-8859-1
Hi John,
My concern with adding 10 meters to a competition class VHF/UHF high end
satellite rig, is that the rig will turn into another mediocre HF rig with
VHF/UHF added on.
If we do start building Mode-A satellites in the future, then we can always
use Two radios, a dedicated HF and a High performance Sat rig.
The primary goal is to have the engineers put all the money into a kick but
6/2/440 transceiver.
Thank you very much for your comments.
WF1F
--- On Mon, 3/1/10, John Geiger <aa5jg@xxxxx.xxx> wrote:
> From: John Geiger <aa5jg@xxxxx.xxx>
> Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Wish List, The Ideal VHF/UHF Sat Rig
> To: "Mark L. Hammond" <marklhammond@xxxxx.xxx>, "Andrew Glasbrenner"
<glasbrenner@xxxxxxxxxx.xxx>
> Cc: amsat-bb@xxxxx.xxx
> Date: Monday, March 1, 2010, 2:32 PM
>
>
> --- On Mon, 3/1/10, Andrew Glasbrenner <glasbrenner@xxxxxxxxxx.xxx>
> wrote:
>
> > >> No access to frequencies below 50
> megacycles.
> > >>? ???
> > Many serious 6m ops listen to utilities below 50Mhz to
> tell
> > when the
> > banding is close to opening.
>
>
> You also need 10m for Mode A.? I'm still hoping that
> RS12/13 pops back to life like AO7 and will have its Mode T
> going again. That was alot of fun.
>
> 73s John AA5JG
>
>
> ? ? ?
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> 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: 4
Date: Mon, 1 Mar 2010 21:30:20 +0100
From: Fabio Roccatagliata <roccaf@xxxxx.xxx>
Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Wish List, The Ideal VHF/UHF Sat Rig
To: amsat-bb@xxxxx.xxx
Message-ID:
<f52debb31003011230y20b573ebya77e685973c11f2c@xxxx.xxxxx.xxx>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1
Dear friends,
I agree with the 100W power requirement I completely agree with WF1F about
not including the 28Mhz.
I was wondering what about an SDR approach. Until now I just saw hf SDR
radios but if it would be possible to use SDR technology most of the
requirements would be satisfied and, quite sure, with lower costs and giving
us the chance to customize much more easily such features.
An SDR approach would also give to not major hamradio companies a chance to
be more competitive on the market = more chances to get from them what we
want
Regards
Fabio
IZ1EGT / F5VKV
On Mon, Mar 1, 2010 at 9:12 PM, MM <ka1rrw@xxxxx.xxx> wrote:
> Hi John,
>
> My concern with adding 10 meters to a competition class VHF/UHF high end
> satellite rig, is that the rig will turn into another mediocre HF rig with
> VHF/UHF added on.
>
> If we do start building Mode-A satellites in the future, then we can
> always use Two radios, a dedicated HF and a High performance Sat rig.
>
> The primary goal is to have the engineers put all the money into a kick but
> 6/2/440 transceiver.
>
> Thank you very much for your comments.
>
> WF1F
>
>
> --- On Mon, 3/1/10, John Geiger <aa5jg@xxxxx.xxx> wrote:
>
> > From: John Geiger <aa5jg@xxxxx.xxx>
> > Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Wish List, The Ideal VHF/UHF Sat Rig
> > To: "Mark L. Hammond" <marklhammond@xxxxx.xxx>, "Andrew Glasbrenner" <
> glasbrenner@xxxxxxxxxx.xxx>
> > Cc: amsat-bb@xxxxx.xxx
> > Date: Monday, March 1, 2010, 2:32 PM
> >
> >
> > --- On Mon, 3/1/10, Andrew Glasbrenner <glasbrenner@xxxxxxxxxx.xxx>
> > wrote:
> >
> > > >> No access to frequencies below 50
> > megacycles.
> > > >>
> > > Many serious 6m ops listen to utilities below 50Mhz to
> > tell
> > > when the
> > > banding is close to opening.
> >
> >
> > You also need 10m for Mode A. I'm still hoping that
> > RS12/13 pops back to life like AO7 and will have its Mode T
> > going again. That was alot of fun.
> >
> > 73s John AA5JG
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> > _______________________________________________
> > 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: 5
Date: Mon, 1 Mar 2010 21:30:50 +0100
From: francesco messineo <francesco.messineo@xxxxx.xxx>
Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Wish List, The Ideal VHF/UHF Sat Rig
To: MM <ka1rrw@xxxxx.xxx>
Cc: amsat-bb@xxxxx.xxx
Message-ID:
<d9f2bc21003011230j223ddd68qb826a422cbdb1d5e@xxxx.xxxxx.xxx>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=windows-1252
Hello,
beeing an engineer (RF/telecom) and V/UHF (and sat) addicted, I'm
always thinkin about this very same issue, but I think that the best
RTX would come from a bunch of engineers with an "open source" like
project, not from one of the current manufacturers. Why? First because
one such rig would cost too much in engineering research and project
(if it really need to be state of the art and no compromise); secondly
because no one would buy the next rig if such a great RTX would really
exists.
As for the features, comments are in line
On 3/1/10, MM <ka1rrw@xxxxx.xxx> wrote:
> My Ideal Competition Grade VHF/UHF Radio Wish list.
>
> It seems we are long over do for a Competition grade high performance
VHF/UHF transceiver, which can also be used for Satellite operations.
There are several competition grade HF transceivers on the market, however
there are no high end competition grade VHF/UHF/Satellite systems on the
marker.
>
> Most of the rigs I have seen which support VHF/UHF are either HF rigs
that have had VHF/UHF slapped on, or low end VHF/UHF rigs, with HF slapped on.
>
> If we want the Amateur Radio manufactures to build us a "GREAT"
VHF/UHF/Satellite system, then we need to tell them what we need.
>
> Here are some suggestions. Constructive comments welcome.
>
> This radio does not exist.
> If the manufactures are interested in providing a new state of the art
VHF/UHF radio to the Amateur Radio community, here is one opinion of what
should be in next Competition Grade VHF/UHF Transceiver and what should not
be in the radio.
>
> I am going to give this fictional radio a name HR-956-Pro.
>
>
> What do we need:
>
> ? We need a competition grade VHF/UHF transceiver that will support
Terrestrial-DX, Satellite and EME operations (Voice, CW and Digital-JT65).
> ? The HR-956-Pro, needs to be able to interface with modern
computers (HTML Browser, USB and or CAT-5).
Ok for USB, maybe ethernet, but I'd put the controlling software on
the PC/computer end, CPU in my opinion needs to do only the essential
non the inside of the RTX, we don't really need heavy digital
noise/birdies and no necessary power consumption. You need to have a
computer anyway. Yes, digital noise and birdies can be confined, but
if it's the least possible from start, I'd vote for it.
> ? The HR-956-Pro, needs to able to interface with modern Externally
mounted Pre-amplifier (both power feeds and transmitter sequencing).
agreed.
> ? The HR-956-Pro, need to be able to interface with modern Solid
State Amplifiers and Tube based amplifiers. The RF output per band needs to
be standardized with the Amplifier manufactures to prevent transceiver and
amplifier failures due to sequencing problems and RF mismatching.
it's good to have power level set by software settings in case of
amplifier presence. However many solid state amplifiers have poor IMD
performance when operated at a lower setting. This needs to be
addressed from the project stage.
> ? TX/RX Sequencer built-in, to control external Preamps, Amplifies
and other accessories (programmable).
agreed.
>
> Receiver:
> Of course we need a "Great" receiver, not another mediocre receiver.
> Each receiver for each band needs to be a "Great" performer.
separate receivers and transmitter chains, in my dreams the RTX can
host one module per band and one module per IF, yes, two separate IF
chains are a must for satellite work or just to monitor two bands at
time. One could also chose analog or fully digital IF module too.
Let's say 4 bays for band modules and two bays for IF modules.
Of course all IF stages are accessible both pre-filtered and post-filtered.
>
> No Birdies:
> On a HF rig, a few Birdies do not usually cause serious issues, since the
HF users are often listening to signals "Above" the noise floor. On a
Satellite Radio, we are often listening to signals 10-30 dB, "Below" the
Noise floor. Internally generated birdies are a serious problem for weak
signal VHF/UHF operations.
agreed.
I'd add, the lowest possible phase noise on conversion oscillators,
I'd have no more than two total conversions per band. All oscillators
locked to internal or external 10 MHz reference.
>
> Filters:
> Each mode will need its own selection of DSP filters. The filters would
also affect one of the Line-level outputs to the external PC. There are
times when want to send Filtered or unfiltered audio to your external PC for
Digital signal processing. One of the line-level outputs should be taped
before the HR-956-Pro Filters, the other line-level output should be taped
after the HR-956-Pro filters. The TX and RX filters should be independently
selectable.
> The Filters need to be tested to verify they will support Satellite
Mode-J (TX on 2-meters while listening on 435-438)
>
> Example:
> FM-5k, Filters 15k, 10k and 8k filters.
> AM Filters 10k, 6k, 3k, etc.
> SSB Filters 4.0k, 3.0k, 2.5k, 2.0k, etc.
>
> Other Modes:
> CW, FM-2.5k, Data
that can be straightforward on digital IF, for analog IF I'd stick
with 3 per mode and optional, not everyone will need every mode.
What AM is for anyway?
> Audio Quality:
> Life is too short for QRP or Poor Audio.
> It's not the number of contacts that?s important, it?s the quality of the
contact.
> On the audio side, the HR-956-Pro needs to be able to support a wider
range of audio through most of the stages. Of course the radio needs to
meet FCC and other requirements, however we can still design the radio to
deliver a wider bandwidth of good sounding audio.
> Let's shoot for 100-4000 Hz, on both TX and RX audio circuits. This will
also mean, that a better stock microphone design will be required.
I'd drop this. I'd rather have very low distortion audio amplifiers
with maybe a large enough BW to let the FM guys have their chat on
repeaters, even if I prefer to think about an high performance rig,
not a very general purpose rig. Audio BW shouldn't be more large than
what's needed to match the widest IF filter anyway. We don't want any
noise added for weak signal operations.
>
>
> VHF / UHF Bands built-in, with competition grade TX/RX:
> 6-meters 50-54
make it 40-60 MHz on RX, lots of opening indicators to watch for.
4-meters is also a must
60-80 MHz RX, tx can be 69.5-70.5 MHz.
> 2-meters 144-148
> 70-cm 420 - 450
I wouldn't make it that large, we need good RX performance and tuned
frontends are a must.
Probably 430-450 can be still made good, but I wouldn't do more and
anyway leave a 430-440 MHz module as an option for region 1.
> 23-cm 1280 - 1300
> (All frequencies localized for each country)
>
> Transmitter outputs:
> A high power transceiver is less desirable than a low power transceiver.
>
> Let me explain:
> For serious Terrestrial DX and EME you need to run more than 100 watts. A
VHF/UHF transceiver designed for high power ( 100 watt range) transmitting,
would not be compatible with third-party amplifiers or pre-amplifiers.
think about satellite only, 100W out is ok for sat only. I'd stay with
the classic 100W per band and have clean low power menu-settable
options for linears owners.
>
> Most VHF/UHF amps are designed for 25 or 50 watts maximum input.
>
> The manufactures of Transceivers and Amplifies need to agree upon a set
of standard power level so the third-party amplifier manufactures can design
properly matched Amplifiers and pre-amplifiers. This will also help reduce
the number of transceiver and amplifier failures caused by mismatched RF
settings.
they will hardly agree. It's better to have a versatile transceiver
that can interface with everything the engineers can think of.
>
> Suggested standards for VHF/UHF bases stations:
> 6 Meters 50 watts
> 2 Meters 25 watts
> 70 cm 25 watts
> 900 mc 10 watts
> 1.2 gig 10 watts
I'd stick with 100W from 6m to 70cm, the others at 10W can be ok.
>
> The duty cycle of the competition grade system, will also need to be
greater than a 70% duty cycle.
> A typical EME link running JT65 requires a 50% for 10-30 minutes at a
time. The transistors and cooling system needs to be designed accordingly
to meet the competition grade requirements.
one minute at 100% power, nothing less. Some countries have > 1Kw
legal limit, it's possible that such amplifiers require 100W drive
levels. Also, meteorscatter operation on lower bands is common with
the 100W level, so why upsetting the happy QRPers?
>
>
> HR-956-Pro Must have list:
>
> Spectrum display screen:
> I can't imagine building a new competition grade system without
this feature.
> It would be nice to see the band pass, before and after the filter
stages.
I'd leave it as an option maybe. Nice to have, but makes the thing
bigger and power hungrier.
On VHF we usually are happy with a fast memory scan on beacons and
maybe TV carriers.
>
> Full computer remote control:
> Memory read/Read and save. All memory channels options must be
exportable to a CSV or similar file, including TX and RX frequencies,
settings, including Repeater or split frequency settings.
> All protocols must be Public protocols, no propriety software or licenses.
that's good, but leave the effort to PC programs.
>
>
> Doppler Control (Manual):
>
> LEO SSB satellites are some of the hardest satellites two work because of
the amount of Doppler frequency change per second. Satellite Mode-B is very
hard (70 cm Uplink and 2-meter Downlink). While you are talking through a
SSB Mod-B satellite, you need to be simultaneously adjusting your
transmitter with every other word, in order to keep your downlink signal
centered inside the transponder.
I always find mode B easier to work with manual doppler corrections.
The higher band is the TX band, so usually I only have to turn one
knob during a QSO even if the other party is using only higher band
manual correction like I'm doing.
>
> The Yasue FT-736R Satellite control knob, seems to work very well with
dual VFO's and provides you the ability to quickly change either TX or RX to
compensate for Doppler (among other features). The Knob style is much
easier to use than "Buttons". I found the Doppler VFO correction on some
newer radios to be very frustrating.
> The new HR-956-Pro must have the Yasue FT-736R control Knob and it must
be functional for both VFO's and Memory Channels.
if modular, each of the IF strips will have its completely independent
VFO, both can be linked for satellite operations anyway.
>
> DSP Noise tools:
> The usual stuff.
well, yes, but please tunable notch. And I mean TUNABLE.
>
>
> FM Center Tuning Meter:
> Many of the new satellites are LEO's (Low Earth Orbit), and many of these
satellites are running FM-5k. The reason for FM is because the Doppler
causes the 70cm band to drift over 20, kHz during a 10-20 minute pass. The
LEO SSB satellites using Mode J or Mode B are difficult to use because of
the large Doppler change. The FM mode, helps reduce the impact caused by
the higher Doppler.
true, doppler impact is reduced on FM, typically also the QSO
possibility are reduced because the one channel is a mess (at least
over europe).
>
> The FM Center Tuning Meter feature is a "must have" for a Satellite radio.
> When the FM satellite comes in range, just look at the FM meter and tune
the receiver until the needle is centered and you now know the exact
downlink for that Satellite. If the needle is left, turn the RX knob
slowly Right, If the needle is Right, turn the RX knob slowly left, very
simple.
yes, FM discriminator is good to have, I'd add AFC to automaticly tune
to the center of the FM channel.
> The Yaesu FT-736R has a FM Center Tuning Meter and it makes working FM
satellites much easier. The IC-910 has a blinking light to tell you your FM
satellite receiver frequency has drifted. Unfortunately, the blinking light
is useless in telling you if your frequency is high or low.
>
>
> HR-956-Pro, Nice to have list:
>
> General coverage receiver (50 - 1000 megacycles):
not easy (or cheap) to have good receivers if too large.
In my modular dream each module has different RX frontend filters for
each sub-band (like each 5 MHz on 6m or even less).
> The addition of a general coverage receiver would help with the sales of
the HR-956-Pro. However, it is very important that the general coverage
receiver, NOT degrade the performance of the satellite receivers. We are
not trying to build a super police scanner. One possible suggestion would-be
to make the general coverage receiver a separate circuit board, which would
be connected to a separate antenna port and thus would not degraded from the
performance of the satellite receivers.
that could be a separate module to add for the police listeners :)
>
> VHF / UHF Optional bands or Transverter:
> The Amateur radio community is constantly experimenting with new bands.
It would be nice to have a Transverter module or expansion module for future
bands. In the USA these bands are becoming popular, 220mc, 900 mc, etc
if the dream rig is made modular from the beginning, this will never
be a problem again.
>
> (All frequencies localized for each country)
>
>
> Size is important:
> To hold the hardware, band scope, filters and make the buttons easily
accessible, a box about the size of the IC-756 product seems to be the right
size.
>
> What should not be in the HR-956-Pro.
>
> No HF:
> No access to frequencies below 50 megacycles.
> The addition of HF to a satellite radio would only degrade the
performance of the weak signal satellite receivers.
not true, you could easily add an HF module and that would not degrade
the performance of everything else (on satellite we still have a 29
MHz sat!), the secret is "modular".
> HF would also add to the cost of the transceiver and reduce its sales
potential.
> A competition grade VHF/UHF transceiver has no use for HF.
> HF would result in the radio being just another mediocre transceiver.
not true if everything is modular. The terrestrial or EME guys could
start with two modules (6m/2m maybe) and one single IF module, either
the digital one or analog one. The sat-only guy would only need
2m/70cm module and the two IFs. One day he would add the HF module to
work AO-07 mode A.
>
> No obsolete Serial ports:
> No RS-232 or TTL.
> These devices are so last century.
they still work very well however. I wouldn't miss it, but always
think about the engineer point of view: both USB and ethernet require
higher clock rates and produce more digital noise to filter out.
>
> DSTAR:
> The DSTAR mode is fun, I use it often and I have even been pushing ARISS
to install it on the International Space Station. As much as I like this
mode, it is not a requirement for a competition grade satellite system. I
would much rather have the money put into making the VHF/UHF receivers the
best possible.
agreed, I don't see how DSTAR can find a place in the DX V/UHF world.
>
> How much are we willing to pay for the HR-956-Pro:
>
> That depends on the performance, suggest price $2000 - $3000 USD
it depends.... state of the art electronic isn't necessarily
expensive. Look at low phase noise oscillators/buffer/amplifiers and
high performance frontends, they're not that much costly than poor
performers. All digital IFs are a reality and we could even think
about direct digital frontends at least on the lower VHF bands. It's
engineers that know how to do them right that cost. An "open source"
kind of approach might work, if we hope a big manufacturer is going to
make a dream trasceiver, I'm afraid I'm not going to buy a newer
transceiver soon.
It can be done, I'm definitely sure.
73
Frank IZ8DWF
------------------------------
Message: 6
Date: Mon, 01 Mar 2010 15:32:54 -0500
From: Andrew Glasbrenner <glasbrenner@xxxxxxxxxx.xxx>
Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: AO-51
To: "John Becker, W?JAB" <w0jab@xxxxxxxxx.xxx>
Cc: amsat-bb@xxxxx.xxx
Message-ID: <4B8C2476.10408@xxxxxxxxxx.xxx>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed
John Becker, W?JAB wrote:
> So just how close was close?
>
> John, W0JAB
>
It's all predictive until they smack together, but the estimates this
morning said 893m overall, but only 39m radially. I'm visualizing that
as one car merging on a highway at 17,500 mph, with one 3000 feet in
front of, and 120 feet left or right of the other. Scale the 17,500 mph
to 70 mph, and the distances in the analogy would be 12 feet in front
of, and 6 inches abreast. Just to put the velocity and distances in
perspective!
73, Drew KO4MA
------------------------------
Message: 7
Date: Mon, 1 Mar 2010 20:46:17 +0000 (UTC)
From: Bob- W7LRD <w7lrd@xxxxxxx.xxx>
Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Wish List, The Ideal VHF/UHF Sat Rig
To: MM <ka1rrw@xxxxx.xxx>
Cc: amsat-bb@xxxxx.xxx
Message-ID:
<1592418790.9177261267476377525.JavaMail.root@xxxxxxx.xxxxxxxxxx.xx.xxxx.xxxxx
xx.xxx>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=utf-8
Hello
This "ideal" rig?might be good for all people (ham shack in a box).?
However-not all of us use or want all things.? When we do, we improvise and
"make" whatever ?we want to work.? That has been a ham tradition since the
beginning.? I would wager as soon as the "HR-956 pro" came on the market as
described there would be some complaining, "well why the heck didn't they do
blank blank".? We will never satisfy the entire ham population, which is why
I thoroughly enjoy making what I have, do what I want it?to do.? Not always
easy, but very rewarding.? Besides it would probably cost a gazillion dollars.
73 Bob W7LRD
Seattle
----- Original Message -----
From: "MM" <ka1rrw@xxxxx.xxx>
To: amsat-bb@xxxxx.xxx
Sent: Monday, March 1, 2010 10:44:00 AM GMT -08:00 US/Canada Pacific
Subject: [amsat-bb] ?Wish List, The Ideal VHF/UHF Sat Rig
My Ideal Competition Grade VHF/UHF Radio Wish list.
It seems we are long over do for a Competition grade high performance
VHF/UHF transceiver, which can also be used for Satellite operations. ?
There are several competition grade HF transceivers on the market, however
there are no high end competition grade VHF/UHF/Satellite systems on the
marker.
Most of the rigs I have seen ?which support VHF/UHF are either HF rigs that
have had VHF/UHF slapped on, or low end VHF/UHF rigs, with HF slapped on.
If we want the Amateur Radio manufactures to build us a "GREAT"
VHF/UHF/Satellite system, then we need to tell them what we need.
Here are some suggestions. ?Constructive comments welcome.
This radio does not exist. ?
If the manufactures are interested in providing a new state of the art
VHF/UHF radio to the Amateur Radio community, here is one opinion of what
should be in next Competition Grade VHF/UHF Transceiver and what should not
be in the radio.
I am going to give this fictional radio a name HR-956-Pro.
?
What do we need:
?????????We need a competition grade VHF/UHF transceiver that will support
Terrestrial-DX, Satellite and EME operations (Voice, CW and ?Digital-JT65).
?????????The HR-956-Pro, needs to be able to interface with modern computers
(HTML Browser, USB and or CAT-5).
?????????The HR-956-Pro, needs to able to interface with modern Externally
mounted Pre-amplifier (both power feeds and transmitter sequencing).
?????????The HR-956-Pro, need to be able to interface with modern Solid
State Amplifiers and Tube based amplifiers. ?The RF output per band needs to
be standardized with the Amplifier manufactures to prevent transceiver and
amplifier failures due to sequencing problems and RF mismatching.
?????????TX/RX Sequencer built-in, to control external Preamps, Amplifies
and other accessories (programmable).
Receiver:
Of course we need a "Great" receiver, not another mediocre receiver. ?
Each receiver for each band needs to be a "Great" performer.
No Birdies:
On a HF rig, a few Birdies do not usually cause serious issues, since the HF
users are often listening to signals "Above" the noise floor. ?On a
Satellite Radio, we are often listening to signals 10-30 dB, "Below" the
Noise floor. ?Internally generated birdies are a serious problem for weak
signal VHF/UHF operations.
Filters:
Each mode will need its own selection of DSP filters. ?The filters would
also affect one of the Line-level outputs to the external PC. ?There are
times when want to send Filtered or unfiltered audio to your external PC for
Digital signal processing. ?One of the line-level outputs should be taped
before the HR-956-Pro Filters, the other line-level output should be taped
after the HR-956-Pro filters. ?The TX and RX filters should be independently
selectable.
The Filters need to be tested to verify they will support Satellite Mode-J
(TX on 2-meters while listening on 435-438)
Example: ?
FM-5k, ????????Filters 15k, 10k and 8k filters.
AM????????????????Filters 10k, 6k, 3k, etc.
SSB????????????????Filters????????4.0k, 3.0k, 2.5k, 2.0k, etc.
Other Modes:
CW, FM-2.5k, Data
Audio Quality:
Life is too short for QRP or Poor Audio. ?
It's not the number of contacts that?s important, it?s the quality of the
contact.
On the audio side, the HR-956-Pro needs to be able to support a wider range
of audio through most of the stages. ?Of course the radio needs to meet FCC
and other requirements, however we can still design the radio to deliver a
wider bandwidth of good sounding audio. ?
Let's shoot for 100-4000 Hz, on both TX and RX audio circuits. ?This will
also mean, that a better stock microphone design will be required.
?
VHF / UHF Bands built-in, with competition grade TX/RX:
6-meters????????50-54 ?
2-meters????????144-148
70-cm????????????????420 - 450
23-cm????????????????1280 - 1300
(All frequencies localized for each country)
Transmitter outputs:
A high power transceiver is less desirable than a low power transceiver.
Let me explain: ?
For serious Terrestrial DX and EME you need to run more than 100 watts. A
VHF/UHF transceiver designed for high power ( 100 watt range) transmitting,
would not be compatible with third-party amplifiers or pre-amplifiers.
Most VHF/UHF amps are designed for 25 or 50 watts maximum input. ?
The manufactures of Transceivers and Amplifies need to agree upon a set of
standard power level so the third-party amplifier manufactures can design
properly matched Amplifiers and pre-amplifiers. This will also help reduce
the number of transceiver and amplifier failures caused by mismatched RF
settings.
Suggested standards for VHF/UHF bases stations:
6 Meters 50 watts
2 Meters 25 watts
70 cm????????25 watts
900 mc 10 watts
1.2 gig????????10 watts
The duty cycle of the competition grade system, will also need to be greater
than a 70% ?duty cycle.
A typical EME link running JT65 requires a 50% for 10-30 minutes at a time.
?The transistors and cooling system needs to be designed accordingly to meet
the competition grade requirements.
HR-956-Pro Must have list:
Spectrum display screen:
????????I can't imagine building a new competition grade system without this
feature.
????????It would be nice to see the band pass, before and after the filter
stages.
Full computer remote control:
Memory read/Read and save. ?All memory channels options must be exportable
to a CSV or similar file, including TX and RX frequencies, settings,
including Repeater or split frequency settings. ?
All protocols must be Public protocols, no propriety software or licenses.
Doppler Control (Manual):
LEO SSB satellites are some of the hardest satellites two work because of
the amount of Doppler frequency change per second. ?Satellite Mode-B is very
hard (70 cm Uplink and 2-meter Downlink). ?While you are talking through a
SSB Mod-B satellite, you need to be simultaneously adjusting your
transmitter with every other word, in order to keep your downlink signal
centered inside the transponder.
The Yasue FT-736R Satellite control knob, seems to work very well with dual
VFO's and provides you the ability to quickly change either TX or RX to
compensate for Doppler (among other features). ?The Knob style is much
easier to use than "Buttons". ?I found the Doppler VFO correction on some
newer radios to be very frustrating.
The new HR-956-Pro must have the Yasue FT-736R control Knob and it must be
functional for both VFO's and Memory Channels.
DSP Noise tools:
The usual stuff.
FM Center Tuning Meter:
Many of the new satellites are LEO's (Low Earth Orbit), and many of these
satellites are running FM-5k. ?The reason for FM is because the Doppler
causes the 70cm band to drift over 20, kHz during a 10-20 minute pass. The
LEO SSB satellites using Mode J or Mode B are difficult to use because of
the large Doppler change. ?The FM mode, ?helps reduce the impact caused by
the higher Doppler.
The FM Center Tuning Meter feature is a "must have" for a Satellite radio.
When the FM satellite comes in range, just look at the FM meter and tune the
receiver until the needle is centered and you now know the exact downlink
for that Satellite. ? If the needle is left, turn the RX knob slowly Right,
?If the needle is Right, turn the RX knob slowly left, very simple.
The Yaesu FT-736R has a FM Center Tuning Meter and it makes working FM
satellites much easier. ?The IC-910 has a blinking light to tell you your FM
satellite receiver frequency has drifted. Unfortunately, the blinking light
is useless in telling you if your frequency is high or low.
HR-956-Pro, Nice to have list:
General coverage receiver (50 - 1000 megacycles):
The addition of a general coverage receiver would help with the sales of the
HR-956-Pro. ?However, it is very important that the general coverage
receiver, NOT degrade the performance of the satellite receivers. ?We are
not trying to build a super police scanner. One possible suggestion would-be
to make the general coverage receiver a separate circuit board, which would
be connected to a separate antenna port and thus would not degraded from the
performance of the satellite receivers.
VHF / UHF Optional bands or Transverter:
The Amateur radio community is constantly experimenting with new bands. ?It
would be nice to have a Transverter module or expansion module for future
bands. ?In the USA these bands are becoming popular, 220mc, 900 mc, etc
(All frequencies localized for each country)
Size is important:
To hold the hardware, band scope, filters and make the buttons easily
accessible, a box about the size of the IC-756 product seems to be the right
size.
What should not be in the HR-956-Pro.
No HF:
No access to frequencies below 50 megacycles.
The addition of HF to a satellite radio would only degrade the performance
of the weak signal satellite receivers. ?
HF would also add to the cost of the transceiver and reduce its sales
potential. ?
A competition grade VHF/UHF transceiver has no use for HF.
HF would result in the radio being just another mediocre transceiver. ?
No obsolete Serial ports:
?No RS-232 or TTL. ?
These devices are so last century.
DSTAR:
The DSTAR mode is fun, I use it often and I have even been pushing ARISS to
install it on the International Space Station. ?As much as I like this mode,
it is not a requirement for a competition grade satellite system. ?I would
much rather have the money put into making the VHF/UHF receivers the best
possible.
How much are we willing to pay for the HR-956-Pro:
That depends on the performance, suggest price $2000 - $3000 USD
Closing:
If anyone knows of such a radio I would be interested to know who makes it.
Sincerely
WF1F ?Miles
www.marexmg.org
?? ? ?
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------------------------------
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