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Satellite antenna design and systems engineering software for windows

An easy to build antenna for ground reception of NOAA weather or amateur satellite signals. Double cross antenna by Gerald Martes

Satellite Finder is a way to accurately point satellite dishes at communications satellites in geostationary orbit.

The Double Bazooka Dipole is a half wave dipole with an attempt at compensation of the reactance change that occurs around resonance for a half wave dipole.

ARRL W1AW Bulletins are spread via internet and on the airwaves, in a variety of modes SSB, FM voice, CW, RTTY, MFSK16, and PSK31. W1AW publishes general interest bullettins as well as propagation reports,satellite and dx news.

A quarter-wave vertical antenna design for HF operation offers a practical solution for radio amateurs seeking a compact and efficient multi-band radiator. This project details the construction of a 5-band HF vertical, drawing inspiration from established commercial products such as the _DX COMMANDER_ and the MV6. The design emphasizes ease of assembly and disassembly, making it suitable for portable operations or installations with limited space. The article provides insights into various construction methods and offers practical tips for building a robust yet lightweight antenna. It highlights the benefits of a vertical configuration for DX contacts, particularly on the lower HF bands, and discusses real-world performance observations. The antenna is designed to cover multiple HF bands, providing versatility for various operating scenarios. Operators can achieve significant DX results with this type of antenna, often comparable to more complex arrays, especially when deployed with an effective ground system. The project aims to empower hams to build a capable antenna without significant financial outlay.

Constructing a Lindenblad antenna for 137MHz NOAA satellite reception involves specific design considerations for optimal performance. The resource details the use of 4mm galvanised steel fencing wire, 300-ohm television ribbon cable, and wood/plastic components for the antenna structure. Key dimensions for a 137.58MHz-resonant antenna are provided, derived from the ARRL Satellite Handbook, specifying s, l, w, and d as 42, 926, 893, and 654mm respectively. The antenna is designed for Right Hand Circularly Polarised (RHCP) signals, requiring the four folded dipole elements to be tilted clockwise by 30 degrees. A significant aspect covered is impedance matching between the antenna's 75-ohm impedance and a typical 50-ohm receiver input. A twelfth-wave matching transformer, constructed from 117mm sections of 50-ohm RG-58 and 75-ohm RG-59 coax with a 0.66 velocity factor, is described. The article also addresses coaxial cable and connector selection, recommending 75-ohm Type-N connectors for RG-6 cable in professional setups and F56/F59 connectors for general use, while strongly advising against PL-259/SO-259 connectors for VHF. Strategies for mitigating Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) are discussed, including antenna placement to shield from local TV transmitters and the use of commercial or DIY band-pass filters, such as cavity resonators or helical notch filters, along with ferrite chokes on coaxial cables. Antenna orientation is explored, noting the Lindenblad's 'cone of silence' directly overhead and its maximized sensitivity towards the horizon. An experimental vertical tilt of 90 degrees is presented as a method to improve overhead reception and reduce interference from strong horizontal signals, particularly relevant in high RFI environments like the Siding Spring Observatory site.

A project for a portable antenna for amateur radio satellite reception, for 2 meters and 70 centimeters bands

Allow 137 Mhz range by Steve Warley

The program calculates the actual position of the satellites using the NORAD 2LINE-element set, which is available via the Internet, for nearly all satellites. The position is then displayed in 3D-view as well as in 2D (mercator) view, where the footprints are also be shown.

Presented here is a high-performance, circularly polarized omni-directional antenna that is easy to build, easy to tune, inexpensive, and will work all the mode J Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites

JJ0DRC's HF multi-band delta loop antenna project, initially conceived during the waning peak of Cycle 23, addresses the common challenge of achieving effective DX operation from a small residential lot in Japan. Dissatisfied with a ground plane antenna's performance in SSB pile-ups, the author sought a beam-like solution without a tower, drawing inspiration from a JJ1VKL article in CQ Ham Radio Sep. 2000. The antenna, constructed in October 2000, employs two 7.2-meter fishing rods (37% carbon fiber, reinforced with cyano-acrylate glue and aluminum tape) and 1mm enameled wire, fed by an Icom AH-4 external antenna tuner. While the exact beam pattern remains unmeasured, JJ0DRC observed a significantly higher callback rate compared to dipole antennas, particularly on higher bands. The system's circumference length of 15-20m is crucial for maintaining a good beam pattern across HF bands, though performance on lower bands like 80m, 40m, and 30m becomes less directional as the length deviates from a full wavelength. Ongoing maintenance addressed degradation issues, including aluminum tape cracking and wire breakage at connection points due to strong winds (often exceeding 10-15m/s in winter). The author reinforced rod connections with IRECTOR PIPE SYSTEM components and INSU-ROCK ties, and improved wire attachment methods using Cremona rope and epoxy bond to enhance durability.

CwType v2.35 provides a dedicated terminal interface for **CW operators**, facilitating Morse code transmission from a Windows PC. Users can input characters via the keyboard or a connected paddle, supporting iambic keying. The software manages transceiver control, including PTT and CW keying, through COM or LPT ports. It offers adjustable speed, dash/dot ratio, and inter-letter spacing, with real-time speed display in LPM and WPM calculated by the "PARIS" method. The program includes features like MOX mode for automatic TX on/off, configurable weighting to compensate for transceiver element clipping, and programmable F-key macros for sending predefined text or special sequences. CwType can integrate with logging software such as AALog (V1.0.3 and later) for data transfer, and supports various character sets including English, Russian, and Swedish. A beacon mode is also available, executing the Alt-F12 macro periodically at a user-defined interval. Audio output for monitoring can be routed through the internal PC speaker or a sound card, with options for sine waveform and smooth envelope generation for SSB transmitters. The software is compatible with **Windows XP/Vista/7/8/10** and is distributed as freeware.

The ICOM IC-7300 is a cutting-edge HF transceiver that has garnered significant attention since its release. This review, published by ARRL in QST, provides an in-depth analysis of its features, performance, and usability. The IC-7300 is known for its direct sampling technology, which enhances its sensitivity and selectivity, making it a favorite among amateur radio operators. The review covers various aspects, including the user interface, audio quality, and overall operational capabilities, providing valuable insights for both new and experienced hams. In addition to its technical specifications, the review discusses the IC-7300's performance in real-world scenarios, such as DXing and contesting. It highlights the transceiver's ability to handle weak signals and its versatility across different modes. The review serves as a helpful guide for those considering the IC-7300 for their station, offering a balanced perspective on its strengths and potential drawbacks. Overall, this review is an essential resource for anyone interested in the ICOM IC-7300 and its place in the amateur radio landscape.

Engaging in **QRP** operations, where amateur radio transceivers transmit at five watts or less, presents a unique challenge and satisfaction for many radio amateurs. This mode emphasizes efficient antenna systems, keen operating skills, and often, the art of **homebrewing** equipment to maximize performance under power constraints. Operators frequently utilize CW (Morse code) for its superior signal-to-noise ratio, enabling reliable contacts over long distances with minimal power. The VK QRP Club, formally known as the CW Operators' QRP Club Inc., serves as a focal point for Australian amateurs passionate about these low-power pursuits. The club fosters a community where members can share insights on antenna design, circuit construction, and operating techniques specific to QRP. It provides resources such as information on club nets and frequencies, Morse practice materials, and a platform for exchanging ideas among enthusiasts. Membership offers access to a network of like-minded individuals, promoting the continued development and enjoyment of QRP within the amateur radio hobby. The club's activities encourage experimentation and skill refinement, vital aspects of successful low-power communication.

7.5 MHz wideband audio delivered via AMC-7 satellite transponder 5 provides a robust platform for disseminating amateur radio news. This service caters to operators seeking timely updates on regulations, technology, and DX news. The bulletin is accessible in both MP3 and RealAudio formats, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices and listening preferences. Regularly updated content keeps amateur radio enthusiasts informed about the latest developments in the hobby. The service covers a broad spectrum of topics, including contesting, digital modes, and antenna technology. By leveraging satellite and internet distribution, it reaches a global audience, making it a vital resource for operators worldwide. Listeners can expect a consistent flow of information, with new episodes released frequently. The service's commitment to providing high-quality content ensures that amateur radio operators remain well-informed and engaged with the community.

LogView is a free post-contest log-visualisation tool, for analysing contest performance. It plots the QSOs in a Cabrillo-format contest-log on to one of 8 different maps by finding the position of each QSO from an online database of about 970,000 W/VE callsigns.

On line shop for amateur radio, cb radio, marine, satellite and scanner supplies based in UK

This project outlines the construction of a 3-element reversible quad antenna specifically designed for the 40-meter band. The materials required include pushup towers, pressure-treated posts, insulated wire, and various electrical components such as relays and a balun. The construction process is straightforward, beginning with the installation of the posts in a straight line, followed by the assembly of the antenna elements and their elevation to the desired height. The antenna's design allows for directional signal reception, making it ideal for operators looking to enhance their communication capabilities on the 40-meter band. The project includes detailed instructions on tuning the antenna for optimal performance, ensuring that operators can achieve the lowest SWR possible. Additionally, the design can be adapted for other bands by extrapolating dimensions, providing versatility for amateur radio enthusiasts. Overall, this reversible quad antenna project is suitable for both beginners and experienced operators, offering a practical solution for improving signal strength and directionality in 40-meter communications.

Satellite tracking on the iPhone/iPod touch. Track and predict visible satellite passes. Touch a satellite in the map view to see it’s orbit path and location.

Antenna was designed for SO-50 satellite operation but can be used for any VHF/UHF activity. It's a mix of a Moxon Antenna and a Yagi antenna. It has gains 4 dBd on 2m and 6.5 dBd on 70cm bands and it is fed via single 50 Ohm cable.

This resource details the construction of a versatile CW/QRSS beacon, designed around a Microchip _PIC16F84_ microcontroller. The project provides a flexible platform for transmitting either standard CW or very slow QRSS signals, making it suitable for LF, VHF, UHF, and SHF applications. It supports two distinct messages, each configurable for speed (from 0 to **127** WPM for CW, or up to **127** seconds per dot for QRSS) and repetition within a six-phase sequence. The core functionality relies on the PIC's EEPROM, which stores all operational parameters, including message content, transmission speeds, phase configurations, and relay control settings. This design allows for parameter modification directly via programming software like _ICProg_ without altering the main program code. The project includes a detailed schematic, a component list, and an explanation of the EEPROM memory mapping for messages, speeds, phase settings, and inter-phase delays. General-purpose outputs (OUT1, OUT2, OUT3) provide dry relay contacts for external control, enabling functions such as power switching, antenna selection, or frequency changes. A 'TRIGGER' input facilitates controlled starts or continuous free-run operation. Sample EEPROM configurations illustrate how to program specific beacon sequences, including message content and relay states.

D3+ High Performance Antennas for Field Day. This article describes versatile broadband wire antennas. These antennas will double your effective radiated power over a dipole, will be easy and inexpensive to build and install, and will be simple to match.

Satellite Tracking and Orbit Propagation, Reports and Mission Planning Products, Pass Scheduling and Orbit Event Analysis, Dynamic Communications Link Modeling, 3-D Visualization of Complex Scenarios User Defined Regions and Contours, Constellation and Formation Flying Support, Global Positioning System Coverage

Simple, inexpensive and lots of fun! Here is an easy to make home brew antenna that can get you on the air working satellites or be built for use as a portable hand held antenna to extend the range of your HT.

Satellite tracking for a Java-enabled mobile phone, Blackberry device, PDA.

Images and Radio Shack composition

Satellite Tracking/Orbital Prediction Program an open-source, multi-user satellite tracking and orbital prediction program written under the Linux operating system by John A. Magliacane, KD2BD. PREDICT is free software

SATBUSTER for Windows is especially designed for satellite visual observers and trackers. Its users, mainly amateur astronomers and radio amateurs, appreciate both the accuracy and the simple to use graphical interface.The software is aimed to hobbysts. However a growing number of plain folks are starting to use this tool to recognize and look at the International Space Station and the Space Shuttle during its missions too

Terrasat Communications specializes in advanced RF technology for satellite communication, focusing on _Intelligent Block Up Converters_ (IBUCs) and Solid State Power Amplifiers (SSPAs). These products are engineered to enhance satellite link performance, offering features like extended frequency ranges and high power efficiency. The IBUC series, for instance, integrates a BUC with an SSPA, enabling operators to install, configure, and monitor units for both commercial and military satellite applications, ensuring reliable, high-performance connectivity worldwide. The company's offerings support various satellite bands, including C, X, Ku, and Ka, providing solutions for diverse operational requirements. Their technology is designed for robust field performance, with products like the _IBUC2_ and _IBUCG_ models demonstrating the integration of advanced diagnostics and control capabilities, which are crucial for maintaining optimal signal integrity in demanding environments. Terrasat's focus on _SSPA_ technology underscores a commitment to power efficiency and compact design.

Automatic Picture Transmission (APT) is used by Satellites to enable a fully automated unattended reception of the transmitted pictures.

Coax is a very important part of a satellite station. It is almost as important as the antennas you choose. This article discusses choosing coaxial cables for satellite communication, emphasizing factors like line loss. It compares types such as RG-8, RG-58, Belden 9913/9913F, LMR-400, and hardline, highlighting their impact on signal preservation.

Constructing a functional spectrum analyzer for the 0-100 MHz range presents a significant challenge for radio amateurs, often requiring specialized components and careful calibration. This project details a homebrew spectrum analyzer design utilizing common integrated circuits like the _SA605D_ FM receiver IC and _MAR-6_ MMIC amplifiers, aiming for a cost-effective solution. The design incorporates a low-pass filter, RF amplification, a voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO) for downconversion, and multiple IF stages at 150 MHz and 10.7 MHz, with a resolution bandwidth (RBW) of 15 kHz. Critical components such as the _SBL-1_ mixer and varicap diodes are specified, alongside instructions for winding inductors and tuning filters. The analyzer's performance is discussed in terms of input level limitations, specifically the 1dB-compression point and third-order intercept point, to ensure accurate measurements and prevent component damage. The _SA605D_'s logarithmic Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI) output serves as the detector, driving the Y-input of an oscilloscope, while a _TL084_ op-amp generates the sweep signal for the X-input. Potential enhancements include adding a step attenuator, improving front-end filtering, and implementing switchable IF filters for variable RBW, allowing for greater versatility in analyzing RF signals.

Here is an antenna for the nineties. It's strong, computer designed, and has lots of gain. It is a full size, four element beam on 10, and three elements on 15 meters

The "Tiny 2" is a great little 2 meter beam. It has some really interesting properties and it is a fantastic first time antenna project for the beginner.

Low Noise Antenna pre-amp for SAT, EME & DX-ing

Live realtime satellite tracking system show current status of amateur radio satellites, ISS tracking is also provided by showing ISS Visible Passes based on your own location. This web site show the International space station live position and can be used as an iss tracker app to determine future satellite and ISS transit over your location.

The Deutscher Amateur-Radio-Club (DARC) e.V. serves as the largest association for radio amateurs in Germany and Europe, structured into 24 districts and approximately 960 local chapters nationwide. Its core mission involves fostering amateur radio and establishing favorable conditions for the Amateur Radio Service. The DARC actively participates in international affairs as a member of the **International Amateur Radio Union (IARU)**, ensuring German interests are represented on a global scale. Recent activities include the announcement of the FUNK.TAG in Kassel for April 25, 2026, and the HAMCamp at **HAM RADIO** in Friedrichshafen from June 26-28, 2026, offering discounted participation for young operators up to 27 years old. The club also supports special events, such as a short-term award and special callsign DB15ØWG to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Weimar–Gera railway line, active from April 1 to June 30. Regular updates, like the Deutschland-Rundspruch 11/2026, cover topics from the status of 70 MHz band permissions to satellite deployments like Ten-Koh 2, and contest results such as the WWA YL event. Propagation forecasts, including Kp indices and solar flux values, are provided by Hartmut Büttig, DL1VDL, offering insights into HF conditions and Gray-Line DX opportunities. The DARC also reports on district elections and space-related events like the Bochumer Weltraumtag, highlighting the diverse engagement of its members.

Web Site of CB Radio station from Vernadsky Research Station on Galindez island 140URL9909

Visually-oriented satellite tracking for commercial and military applications

SSTV1 Modem software is an AFM modem that runs on the TAPR/AMSAT DSP-93 hardware platform that can be used to receive and transmit Slow Scan Television(SSTV) signals.

UJYSAT is a new software for satellite tracking written by IT9UJY, This software is totally free for Amteur Radio only.

A copper pipe Hentenna for 144 MHz. The Hentenna, a compact, high-gain loop antenna developed in Japan in the 1970s, offers approximately 5.1 dBd gain, comparable to a three-element Yagi. Adapted for 2 meters, it is crafted from copper pipe for simplicity, affordability, and broadband performance. Requiring no feed-point tuning, its construction involves soldering standard copper fittings. Installation demands non-conductive materials to minimize signal disruption. Versatile for vertical or horizontal polarization, it is ideal for FM, repeater, SSB, or CW applications. This design emphasizes practicality and performance for amateur radio enthusiasts

Monitors the space weather parameters essential for HF radio, including SSN/SFI, Ap/Kp, X-ray/Proton flux, and Auroral activity. IonoProbe downloads near-real time satellite and ground station data, stores information for future use and displays it in a user-friendly way.

Presents a detailed construction guide for a **Quadrifilar Helix Antenna** (QHA) optimized for 137 MHz, specifically for receiving weather satellite transmissions. The resource outlines the author's experience building previous QHA designs, highlighting challenges with tuning and nulls, and then focuses on a refined design by John Boyer, documented by Steve Blackmore, which proved easier to build and yielded superior reception. The guide provides precise element dimensions, including 1.5m of 32mm PVC pipe for the mast and 8mm soft copper tubing for the helix elements. It specifies lengths for horizontal tubes (190mm, 90mm) and helix elements (903mm, 1002mm), along with instructions for drilling, assembly, and forming a **balun** by wrapping RG58 coax around the mast. The text emphasizes critical steps like ensuring elements are square and twisting in the correct direction to avoid phase issues. It includes references to original QST articles by Buck Ruperto (W3KH) and the WxSat program for decoding satellite transmissions, contextualizing the antenna's purpose. The article concludes with a sample NOAA 12 image from September 1998, demonstrating the antenna's reception capabilities.

Operating Slow Scan Television (SSTV) on Apple macOS systems requires specialized software to encode and decode images for transmission over amateur radio frequencies. MultiScan 3B was an application designed for this purpose, enabling Mac users to engage in SSTV communications. It supported various popular SSTV modes, including Robot Black & Color, Scottie, Martin, PD modes (P3, P5, P7), and AVT, catering to a wide range of operational preferences and compatibility requirements within the SSTV community. The software's capabilities extended to both transmitting and receiving pictures, offering flexibility in how images were processed. Users could select regular, narrow, QRM, and narrow+QRM modes, allowing for adaptation to different band conditions and signal environments. This feature was particularly useful for mitigating interference and optimizing image quality during transmissions on HF bands. MultiScan 3B was built to run on Mac OS X 10.6 and later versions, providing a dedicated solution for Mac users interested in this classic digital mode. Its support for multiple modes and operational settings made it a versatile tool for SSTV enthusiasts.

An efficient 2 meter antenna disguised as a TV Satellite dish. This vertically polarized horizontal slot antenna, cut into the reflector of a TV dish, might be the ultimate stealth antenna.

If you are interested in the environment, the weather and other natural phenomena then there is something magical about being able to see pictures of the earth from space just as it is right this minute. One way you can do this is by receiving images from weather satellites.

Must modern HF transceivers be treated as black box appliances? VE1FA doesn’t think so, and his experience with the Kenwood TS-850SAT bears him out.

Lan-Link and Lan-Link for Windows. Other software by G3ZCZ. Some of G3ZCZ's conference papers on amateur radio, and AMSAT editorials