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SSTV Hardware Guide
Radio Equipment
Receiver Requirements
Basic Specifications:
- SSB (Single Sideband) modulation
- Support for SSTV frequencies
- Good frequency stability
- Low noise preamplifier (Optional)
Recommended Models:
- HF: Yaesu FT-857D, Icom IC-7100
- VHF: Yaesu FT-991A, Icom IC-7000
- Multi-band: Kenwood TS-590S, Elecraft K3
Transmitter Requirements
Additional Requirements:
- SSB transmission capability
- Coherent frequency response
- Precise modulation
- Microphone interface
Antennas
HF Antennas
| Type | Frequency Range | Performance | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dipole | 80-10m | Basic | Low |
| Long wire | 80-10m | Variable | Low |
| Vertical | 80-10m | Good | Medium |
| Yagi | 10m | Excellent | High |
| Parabolic | Professional | Superior | Very High |
VHF Antennas
| Type | Gain | Directivity | Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1/4 wave | 0 dBi | Omnidirectional | Basic |
| 1/2 wave dipole | 2.14 dBi | Omnidirectional | Standard |
| Collinear | 5-9 dBi | Semi-directional | Improved |
| Yagi | 10-13 dBi | Directional | Advanced |
Audio Interface
Audio Connections
Reception:
- Radio audio output → Computer/phone input
- Minimum loss cable
- Shielding to reduce noise
Transmission:
- Computer/phone audio output → Radio microphone input
- Audio level matching is important
- Isolation transformer recommended
Commercial Interfaces
Commercial Options:
- RigBlaster Advantage
- SignaLink USB
- Tigertronics SignaLink
- MFJ audio interface
DIY Options:
- Simple 1:1 isolation transformer
- Voltage divider resistor networks
- Capacitive coupling
Amplifiers
Low Noise Preamplifier
For improving weak signal reception.
Specifications:
- Noise figure < 1 dB
- Gain 15-25 dB
- Low power consumption
Power Amplifier
For long distance transmission.
Specifications:
- Output power 50-100 watts
- Low harmonics
- Efficiency > 60%
Auxiliary Equipment
Frequency Counter
For calibration and frequency verification.
- Accuracy ±0.1 ppm
- Digital display
- Wide frequency range
Power Meter
Monitor transmission power.
| Type | Purpose | Accuracy |
|---|---|---|
| Forward/Reverse | Adjustment and monitoring | ±5% |
| Digital | Precise measurement | ±3% |
| RF Sampling | Real-time monitoring | ±2% |
Spectrum Analyzer
Analyze signal quality.
- Frequency coverage range
- Frequency resolution
- Dynamic range
Power Supply
Requirements
- 12V DC - Most radio equipment
- Regulated - Voltage variation < 1%
- Adequate capacity - Peak current requirements
Recommendations
- Linear regulator (preferred)
- Switching mode power supply (portable)
- UPS (backup power)
Building a Complete System
Entry Level System ($500-1000)
Basic transceiver
↓
Simple antenna
↓
Audio interface
↓
Phone or laptop
↓
SSTV application
Intermediate System ($1000-3000)
Multi-band transceiver
↓
Improved antenna
↓
Dedicated audio interface
↓
Desktop computer
↓
MMSSTV and accessories
Advanced System ($3000+)
High-end transceiver
↓
Directional antenna arrays
↓
Low noise preamplifier
↓
High performance computer
↓
SDR and professional tools
Portable Setups
Mobile Installation
- Mobile transceiver
- Magnetic mount antenna
- 12V power supply
- Mobile application
Handheld Equipment
- Handheld transceiver
- Small antenna
- Mobile application
- Battery powered
Maintenance
Regular Checks
- Check connections
- Calibrate frequency
- Clean contacts
- Check antenna
- Test audio levels
Troubleshooting
- Keep spare batteries
- Maintain spare antenna
- Maintain emergency kit
- Learn basic repairs
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