[amsat-bb] Re: I'd like your shack ideas

[Jim Jerzycke]

On 10/07/2010 09:47 AM, David Giles wrote:
> Hello All,
>
> The light at the end of the tunnel is getting brighter as I complete my 
> shack renovations.  Soon I will be at the all important stage of 
> figuring out the best way to locate radios, computers, logbooks etc.
>
> This brings to mind a couple of questions.
>
> 1) Apart from the extra rotator controllers, the computer running a 
> tracking program and the pre-dominance of VHF and UHF radios, are there 
> any other accessories etc that distinguish a satellite operator from a 
> 'normal' operator?
>
> 2) Given that you really find out how good you are when the PC crashes 
> halfway during a QSO and you then have to manually operate two radios 
> for Doppler shift and two rotator controllers as well as mic/key, what 
> controls do you operate with each hand?  Would a footswitch for PTT be 
> worthwhile?
>
> 3) My planned layout is (from left to right): 19" rack holding various 
> bits of equipment that I don't generally need to touch, TS-811 for 70cm, 
> K3 for 2m, rotator control box, and computer.  Eventually I will build a 
> switchbox to use one headset between the two radios and place this 
> between them.  Though I have a TNC, I rarely do any digital work.  Does 
> this seem a logical layout for a right handed person?  I will have the 
> luxury of using a larger desk than before and the layout will be more 
> horizontal than vertical.
>
> Contesters spend some effort on the ergonomics of their station.  Any 
> advice on how I could get mine right would be appreciated.
> Thanks in advance.
>
> 73 de David VK5DG (who is looking forward to getting back on the air).
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>   
Hi, David
I've found a boom-mounted mic using a foot switch for PTT frees up some
table space *and* my hands for doing things like logging QSOs and
messing with the computer.
73, Jim  KQ6EA