Last chance for PCSAT2 operations

Bob, WB4APR told AMSAT members about the final two operating modes that will be available via PCSAT2.

The first mode will allow radio amateur to hear a voice response to packets which have been digipeated. The second mode is the final opportunity to test PCSAT2's CW/PSK transponder.

For the remaining days of PCSAT2's operation on ISS, which ends this week on August 30, the amateur radio payload will be configured for VOICE response to normal packets transmitted via the normal ISS digipeater 145.99 uplink / 145.800 downlink.

The command station's voice downlink will be on 437.975 +/-
Doppler and he/she will attempt to acknowledge by voice all
packets seen on the packet uplink or generally chat about the system.

Users who want to participate, simply send your packets as normal 'VIA ARISS' on 145.99 uplink / 145.800 downlink, but listen on the 437.975 MHz downlink for the combined voice and packets.

This will only work when PCSAT2 is in range of a participating
command station and there is no guarantee that all command stations will be available on any given pass.

Bob describes the final opportunity for amateur radio satellite stations to test the PCSAT2 CW and PSK transponder.

To switch on the CW/PSK transponder mode you need to send a 1200 baud packet CONNECT-REQUEST to "PCSAT2" on 145.825 uplink. This packet "connection" will trigger The 29.401 to 435.275 MHz transponder to come up for the duration Of the connection or 1 minute which ever ends first.

Due to 10 meter receiving sensitivity problems aboard PCSAT2 your earth station will need to transmit at high power - 100 watts or greater on the 29.401 MHz CW/PSK uplink frequency. Listen on the 435.275 MHz FM downlink for the signal.

Bob, WB4APR

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