← Back to SSTV Documentation Index

SSTV FAQ

Fundamentals

Q: What is SSTV?

A: SSTV (Slow Scan Television) is a communication mode for transmitting static images via amateur radio frequencies. It converts images into audio signals that can be transmitted via RF.

Q: How is SSTV different from regular television?

A: SSTV transmits slowly (typically 2-5 minutes), allowing the use of simple equipment for long-distance communication. Regular TV requires real-time transmission and high bandwidth.

Q: What can I do with SSTV?

A: You can receive images from amateur radio operators, the ISS, or weather satellites from around the world.

Getting Started

Q: Do I need a license?

A: Yes, in most countries operating requires an amateur radio license. Receiving usually doesn't require a license.

Q: How do I get a license?

A: Study the materials, take an exam, typically administered by national regulatory agencies (FCC in USA, Ofcom in UK, etc.).

Q: Can I receive SSTV on my smartphone?

A: Yes, SSTV apps for iOS and Android can receive SSTV directly from the microphone.

Q: What's the minimum investment?

A: Entry level requires $300-500 (transceiver, antenna, interface).

Operating Technology

Q: What are the most common SSTV modes?

A: M1, M2, and Robot 24 are most common. P3 is used for high quality reception.

Q: How do I know when there are SSTV activities?

A: Check SSTV forums, frequency guides, or ISS schedules (heavens-above.com).

Q: How strong does an SSTV signal need to be?

A: For most modes, you need at least 8-10 dB SNR. Weaker signals can use slower modes.

Q: Can I receive both black & white and color?

A: Yes, different modes support color (M1, M2, P series) or black & white (BW modes).

Q: How important is the antenna?

A: Very important! A good antenna can significantly improve reception quality, especially for weak signals.

Hardware

Q: Can I receive from any transceiver?

A: No, you need an SSB (single sideband) receiver. Most modern transceivers support this.

Q: Can SDR (Software Defined Radio) receive SSTV?

A: Yes, RTL-SDR ($25-50) can receive SSTV.

Q: Do I need a power amplifier?

A: Not for reception. For transmission, you can use lower power (5-50 watts).

Q: What's the best antenna?

A: For HF, a simple dipole works. For VHF, a collinear antenna provides good results.

Software

Q: What's the best SSTV software?

A: Most popular:

Q: Can I generate SSTV on a computer?

A: Yes, most SSTV software has encoding features to transmit images.

Q: What determines image quality?

A: Main factors are signal strength (SNR), antenna direction, receiver calibration, and chosen mode.

ISS and Satellites

Q: How often does ISS conduct SSTV?

A: Irregularly, but typically several multi-hour activities per month.

Q: How do I track the ISS?

A: Use heavens-above.com, Heavens-Above app, or ISS Notifier.

Q: What do I need to receive ISS SSTV?

A: A VHF receiver on 145.800 MHz, omnidirectional antenna, and SSTV software.

Q: When do NOAA satellites broadcast?

A: Continuously, but reception depends on satellite passes over your location.

Troubleshooting

Q: Why am I not getting clear images?

A: Check frequency accuracy, input volume, signal strength, and antenna direction.

Q: Why does my frequency keep drifting?

A: Many transceivers have frequency instability. Use an external frequency standard or manual calibration.

Q: Why are my images color distorted?

A: Usually caused by audio distortion or poor frequency response. Check volume and audio cables.

Q: How can I improve signal quality?

A: Improve antenna, increase power (for transmission), move to a clear location, avoid interference.

Community and Support

Q: How do I join the SSTV community?

A: Join SSTV forums, Facebook groups, clubs, or participate in online events.

Q: Where can I share my receptions?

A: SSTV archives, SkyViewCafe, Reddit, Facebook, forums.

Q: How do I get help?

A: Forums, club members, online communities, technical support email.

Q: Are there beginner guides?

A: Yes, most SSTV forums and ARRL provide them.

Legal and Compliance

Q: Is it legal to receive SSTV without a license?

A: Usually yes. Check your country's regulations.

Q: What's required to transmit SSTV?

A: Valid amateur radio license and compliance with frequency/power rules.

Q: Does SSTV cause interference?

A: SSTV uses relatively small bandwidth (≤ 2.8 kHz) and operates on designated frequencies.

Q: Can I use SSTV commercially?

A: Usually not. Amateur radio is limited to non-commercial use.

Previous: SSTV Community Resources | Next: Complete SSTV Guide