[amsat-bb] Two 706 radios for satellite? (was Icom CT-16)

[Kyle Yoksh]

> Date: Tue, 26 Dec 2006 07:43:45 -0500
> From: "Stephen Brown Jr"
> Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Icom CT-16 Sat Interface

> 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?


Hi Stephen (and the list),

I use two 706 radios for satellite work, a MKI and a MKIIg. I've had 
fantastic results, and the MKI is a
big upgrade from my old Icom 245 that I used in the AO-40 days. Plus, now 
I'm equipped for mode K
in case RS-12/13 comes back to life.. hi hi         I DO miss that bird - I 
used to really enjoy mode T..

I use InstantTrack with InstantTune to control my two radios via a homebrew 
MAX232 interface. As someone else
mentioned, a single interface will control up to four Icom radios, using one 
serial port. I mounted just one 1/8" jack
on my interface, but you can use simple audio y-adapters as necessary for 
multiple radios.

I built my MAX232 interface for about $10-$15, and it's an easy project that 
anyone can build. As a side benefit, I found
that this same interface can program my Yaesu VX5r and EF Johnson commercial 
radios..
http://yokshs.fortunecity.com/schematics.html

73 for now. Happy new year to all of my friends around the world and hope to 
work you all via satellite many times in 2007.

Kyle Yoksh
KØKN
Olathe, Kansas
Amsat# 35249