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SSTV Troubleshooting
FAQ and Solutions
Question 1: No Signal Detected
Symptom: The application does not detect any SSTV signal.
Possible Causes:
- Antenna issue
- Incorrect frequency
- Volume too low
- Receiver offline
Solutions:
- Check antenna connection
- Verify frequency settings
- Adjust input volume
- Test with other known signals
- Verify receiver operation
Question 2: Image Distortion or Deformation
Symptom: The received image appears distorted or pixelated.
Possible Causes:
- Weak signal
- Frequency drift
- Clock error
- Audio distortion
Solutions:
- Improve antenna direction
- Fine-tune frequency
- Lower input volume
- Stay away from interference sources
- Try different modes
Question 3: Sync Loss
Symptom: Reception starts but stops midway.
Possible Causes:
- Signal interruption
- Frequency drift
- Multipath propagation
- Increased interference
Solutions:
- Better antenna direction
- Compensate for frequency drift
- Increase power (if transmitting)
- Find alternative frequency
- Wait for better conditions
Question 4: Partial Image Reception
Symptom: Only part of the image is received.
Possible Causes:
- Incomplete satellite or signal pass
- Receiver offline
- Insufficient time
- Wrong mode
Solutions:
- Confirm complete pass
- Check receiver status
- Select a faster mode
- Verify mode selection
Question 5: Incorrect Colors
Symptom: Colors appear wrong or have changed.
Possible Causes:
- Color decoding error
- Audio distortion affecting chroma
- Monitor calibration issue
- Software issue
Solutions:
- Calibrate audio input
- Adjust color settings
- Calibrate monitor
- Update or reinstall software
- Try another computer
Performance Optimization
Improving Reception Quality
Antenna Optimization
- Better antenna design
- Correct direction and height
- Avoid obstructions
Audio Optimization
- Quality audio interface
- Shielded cables
- Proper gain settings
Environmental Improvement
- Stay away from RF interference
- Minimize multipath
- Clear physical obstructions
Receiver Adjustment
- Regular calibration
- Optimal bandwidth settings
- Proper AGC settings
Mode Selection
| Signal Condition | Recommended Mode |
|---|---|
| Very weak | P7, M2 |
| Weak | P5, M2 |
| Moderate | P3, M1 |
| Strong | M1, Robot 24 |
| Very strong | Robot 36, Robot 72 |
Advanced Troubleshooting
Frequency Analysis
Use a spectrum analyzer or software (such as GQRX) to:
- Verify signal presence
- Check frequency accuracy
- Identify interference
- Measure signal-to-noise ratio
Recording and Analysis
- Record received audio
- Analyze frequency content
- Check timing
- Test decoding algorithms
Contacting Support
If the problem is still unresolved:
- Record signal samples
- Document detailed settings information
- Describe when the problem occurs
- Contact the SSTV community or developers
Resources
- SSTV forums and websites
- Amateur radio clubs
- Technical support forums
- Developer support
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