[amsat-bb] Re: SSB

[Patrick STODDARD (WD9EWK/VA7EWK)]

Kevin,

>               ARRISat
>
>              Its too bad this is a SSB sat. I suppose it will be great for those who
> have SSB capability, less traffic and all. I guess I have to spend more money.....

But it won't take a lot of money, at least to get started with SSB via
satellite.

I'm working SSB with two FT-817NDs, or occasionally substituting a TH-F6A
in place of the second FT-817ND.  That HT has an all-mode receiver that is
OK for SSB satellite work.  Yes, additional money - but not huge sums.  Both
the FT-817 (all variants) and the TH-F6A (TH-F7, outside the Americas) have
been on the market for around 10 years, and can be found on the used market
as well as the radio stores.  And I've not even started to mention
older satellite-
ready transceivers or other all-mode transceivers that could be pressed into
service like the IC-706 series, FT-857, etc.

If you have a setup like those mentioned above, you can always use that on
the FM birds as well.  I've worked those satellites with two radios - and no
computer control - for over 2 years now.  Not as many QSOs in SSB as on
the FM satellites, but just as fun.  I've posted some videos of working SSB
satellites (VO-52, FO-29, AO-7) at:

http://www.youtube.com/va7ewk

if you'd like to see my setup.

73!





Patrick WD9EWK/VA7EWK
http://www.wd9ewk.net/