[amsat-bb] Alfa/Spid RAS/HR

[Erich Eichmann]

SatPC32 supports also the Alfa Spid modes Rot2 and MD1/2 (not only the 
Yaesu mode). It comes with interface programs for both modes.

Erich, DK1TB

Am 01.05.2016 um 22:09 schrieb Norm n3ykf:
> Picked up one of these NIB for just over half sale price, including
> the MD-02 control box.
>
> Works well. Had it spinning around for 7 days. Last park found the
> antenna where it was supposed to be.
>
> No mechanical re-alignment was performed during testing.
>
> Satpc32 would only drive it if the MD-02 was set to accept GS-232.
> Tried this first. Software spun the rotator around 850 degrees in one
> direction. Took two days to accomplish this feat. Ran the box
> allllllll the way back to 0.
>
> Used PST rotator with the same setup. GS-232 via usb. No problems in 5 days.
>
> Think I found the problem with PST rotator. Haven't gotten to play
> with it to see.
>
> Schematics were easy to follow. Documentation was typicial chinglish.
>
> Mechanically, it's built like a tank. Quality control is typical
> eastern European/former Soviet republic style. Check out the drill
> shaving embedded in the grease:
>
> https://www.flickr.com/photos/n3ykf/25825497034/in/dateposted/
>
> How the manufacturer suggests running control and RF cables throught
> the mast baffles me. This is a shot with the cable grommet plate
> removed:
>
> https://www.flickr.com/photos/n3ykf/26364148821/in/dateposted/
>
> The top of the casting has a hole that measures approximately 1"
>
> Get the cables in there? Sure! I give it about two months of heavy use
> before erosion of cable jacket causes shorts. Lots of exposed
> electronics inside. Who wants +24VDC on the coax shield?
>
> Used a recycled AT power supply for +12V and a 6A +24VDC for motor B+.
>
> Antenna was an 2m Elk for testing. Next up is adding buckets of concrete.
>
> Norm n3ykf
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