[amsat-bb] Re: Need Advice for SDR choice

[David Barber]

I would echo Mark's comments regarding the FCD.

I was also lucky enough to receive one of the first batch and have been
experimenting ever since.  The device is excellent, its stability and
performance is remarkable throughout its intended operating range.

If you enjoyed Softrock at HF then for VHF and above this little unit is
your next step.

And of course it's supporting the Funcube Project.

David
G8OQW

********


http://www.funcubedongle.com/


http://funcube.org.uk/


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-----Original Message-----
From: amsat-bb-bounces at amsat.org [mailto:amsat-bb-bounces at amsat.org] On
Behalf Of Mark L. Hammond
Sent: 04 January 2011 12:21
To: amsat-bb
Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Need Advice for SDR choice

I think the most significant difference between the FCD and the Softrocks is
FREQUENCY, isn't it?  Are there Softrocks that will do 64-1700 MHz?  

I don't remember for sure, but I thought the Softrocks are good only up to
30 or 50 MHz.  The FCD is from 60-ish to 1.7GHz.   That makes them apples to
oranges in comparison.   

So, if I have this right, I would need a Softrock and what---two or three
downconverters?--to cover just 2M, 70cm, and 23 cm.  Oh, add a sound card.
That's more than the cost of a FCD shipped to the US...

If you're using an IF of a receiver, you need the receiver!! and the
Softrock.  And a sound card.

I have three Softrock kits sitting on the bench right now, for those exact
reasons above.  The FCD  is a one piece, plug and play solution for the
bands I wanted to work (VHF, UHF).   There really isn't a better option, far
as I can tell...

73,

Mark N8MH