[amsat-bb] Working AO-85 With An FT-817

[Fernando Ramirez]

Just to echo Bill's advice and relate my own experience.

I don't have any experience with the 817 as I use a 5 watts Chinese HT.

I programmed 5 channels on my radio with 435.160 as AOS through 435.180 LOS
and 435.170 for mid pass.

Since I operate half duplex (I don't encourage this due to all the obvious
reasons), I divide the arc on my tracking app in 5 segments to find the
correct uplink frequency.

The antenna I use is an Arrow II. You will tune for clear signal then twist
90° to transmit. Twist again to receive. I understand Elk users don't have
a problem with this since both bands use the same polarity.

Following this pass pattern, I've gotten into the satellite down to 6
degrees elevations. Also, I am only able to work the satellite on ascending
passes (south to north) after it crosses the satellite apex.

It's is hard but doable!

73

Fernando, NP4JV
On Jan 10, 2016 8:48 PM, "B J" <va6bmj at gmail.com> wrote:

I've made several attempts to work this bird with my '817, since it's
winter where I live and setting up my IC-910 on my balcony would be
impractical.

I programmed my radio with the nominal uplink and downlink at 435.180
and 145.980, respectively.  I haven't made any contacts so far, so I'm
wondering if I should adjust the uplink closer to 435.172.  (I'm
assuming, of course, that I haven't been blacklisted or some such
thing, hi.)

Please advise.  Thank you.

73s

Bernhard VA6BMJ @ DO33FL
_______________________________________________
Sent via AMSAT-BB at amsat.org. AMSAT-NA makes this open forum available
to all interested persons worldwide without requiring membership. Opinions
expressed
are solely those of the author, and do not reflect the official views of
AMSAT-NA.
Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program!
Subscription settings: http://www.amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb