On Dec 29, 2009, at 9:05 AM, Andrew Glasbrenner wrote: > mixing modes on a single > downlink is problematic. > > 73, Drew KO4MA
Drew - Can you expand on this? I got my start on AO-7 Mode A the first time around ca 1980 using an old Ameco TX-62 I purchased for $40 at the TRW swapmeet and made lots of cross mode CW/SSB contacts. As I recall, this was common place and perfectly acceptable in those days, even encouraged, as lots of beginners had CW only by keying the PTT on their 2M FM. Have times changed? I realize that there aren't a lot of CW ops left these days, but it is still a powerful mode and a good introduction to what can be done with weak signals on a minimal investment. That 10 dB or so SNR advantage really helps. Don't misunderstand, I am not a CW forever guy and try to be mode agnostic, but I do operate as much CW as any other mode. Having said that, I prefer the linear mode satellites, but that is not a CW/voice issue, but rather what I see as a greater utilization of available resources. But I agree that the FM birds have their place, particularly in seducing beginners to the joys of working others through satellites. I too am getting back into satellites after a short hiatus, well maybe a long one, I last worked RS12 on Mode A and K. But a new TS-2000X sits in the shack and I am getting the VHF/UHF antennas back up. Listen for me on CW and SSB. Maybe FM as well. Are any digital modes being used? I recall reports in the AMSAT Journal of some successful Hell QSOs a few years back. - Duffey -- KK6MC James Duffey Cedar Crest NM _______________________________________________ Sent via [email protected]. 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
