[amsat-bb] Re: Icom CT-16 Sat Interface

[Doug Faunt N6TQS +1-510-655-8604]

I used a CT-16 with a pair of IC-706's to operate AO-40 on the
TZ6RD trip.

It works pretty well, although the 1200 baud speed introduces more
latency then is really comfortable.  Obviously, doing this with a more
capable computer that would take care of Doppler too would be better.
And a higher speed unit would be good, but no one has done that, to my
knowledge.  I think this would be easy to implement in a PIC, but what
do I know?  

A combination unit, with a USB interface that looked like
either one or two serial interfaces to a connected computer, and could
function stand-alone like a CT-16 would be ideal, and substitute for a
CT-17, too.

Being able to change the configuration with push-push switches is
actually very nice and user-friendly, in my view, BTW.

BTW, a CT-16 doesn't require a CT-17 to operate.  I always
disconnected the one to hook up the other, since I was also using one
of the IC-706's for HF operation, with a logging program hookup.

73, doug

   Date: Tue, 26 Dec 2006 07:43:45 -0500
   From: "Stephen Brown Jr" <stephen.brown75 at gmail.com>

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   Hi Robert,
	 I'm not sure on the CT-16 or equivalent, but I do have a couple of
   circuits I can share with you that will provide CI-V control from your PC. I
   have not built any of these, but they look fairly straightforward:

   http://www.qsl.net/k0kn/schematics.html

   I think you can use the MAX232 or two transistor interface.

   I've also attached a schematic for another interface that someone else
   shared with me as well.

   I'd be curious to know if anyone is using two 706's autonomously with PC
   control for sat work. I would also think you may be able to take two of the
   aforementioned circuits or equivalent and be able to accomplish the same
   thing?

   Hope that helps.

   73's
   Stephen
   N1VLV





   On 12/25/06, Robert L Lasso <rlasso at zianet.com> wrote:
   >
   > I am considering using a Icom CT-16 Sat Interface with two IC-706MKIIG
   > radios. I do not have a CT-16 and want to know if this is the best route or
   > are there other after market interfaces or software that can be used or
   > plans for a homebrew interface. Hard to find a used CT-16 so far on the
   > internet. I assume that I will also need a Icom CT-17 Level Converter or one
   > of the equivalent models out there made by other hams. Appreciate any
   > advice. 73, Robert W6RQR