[amsat-bb] 73 on 73 Award Reminder

[Bob- W7LRD]

>From the upper left coast it will an interesting challange 

73 Bob W7LRD 
Seattle CN87 

----- Original Message -----

From: "Paul Stoetzer" <n8hm at arrl.net> 
To: amsat-bb at amsat.org 
Sent: Sunday, August 31, 2014 12:41:47 PM 
Subject: [amsat-bb] 73 on 73 Award Reminder 

Just a reminder that the award period for the 73 on 73 Award begins at 
0000Z on September 1st, so begin keeping track of the unique callsigns that 
you work on AO-73. When you reach 73 unique callsigns in your log, email me 
at n8hm at arrl.net with a list of calls, date, and time worked (in UTC) and 
your mailing address. I hope to have a website up soon with an example of 
what the award will look like. 

Some tips for working AO-73: 

-Keep in mind the frequency drift on the transponder. The offset needed on 
your transmit frequency is usually from +10 kHz to +16 kHz. This can vary 
throughout the pass, requiring frequency adjustments if using computer 
control. Many find manually tuning the uplink to maintain a constant 
downlink to work better than computer control. 

-I usually start a pass by trying to find myself come into the top 
edge of the passband (145.970 MHz). To do this, I usually start 
transmitting around 435.135 MHz and tuning up slowly until I can hear 
myself enter the passband. Then I can move around the transponder 
easily. Remember to tune your uplink to maintain an constant downlink 
frequency (the opposite of FO-29). 

-Keep power output down. The transponder has a very sensitive receiver 
and a very active AGC circuit. Excessive uplink power will not make 
your signal louder - it will only reduce that available for others on 
the transponder. With a clear view of the horizon, 5 watts to an Arrow 
or Elk is plenty for horizon to horizon coverage. Very slightly more 
might be necessary if you are beaming through trees or other 
obstructions, but try to keep power to 25-40 watts ERP. 

Good luck! Who will claim the 73 on 73 Award #1? 

73, 

Paul Stoetzer, N8HM 
Washington, DC, USA (FM18lv) 
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