ARISS confirms Amateur Radio hardware deliveries

The ARISS team received confirmation from Sergey, RV3DR, that the recent Progress flight delivered the flight backup
D-700, a David Clark Headset for the Ericsson system, and an additional VOX box and cables to support the computer-operated SSTV system.

The D700 may be installed as early as late this week, depending on crew availability. The flight backup will not provide a significant change in ARISS operations, making it easier for the crew to change program modes.

Richard Garriott plans to take a Kenwood VC-H1 SSTV communicator with him on-board the Soyuz for his flight and leave it aboard the ISS for future ARISS use.

The VC-H1 has completed all hardware certification on the US and Russian sides. The final test, an EMI radiated emissions test, was performed last week and the test data
was delivered to Sergey Samburov, RV3DR in Russia this week.

The VC-H1 provides a very simple interface for ISS crew members and does not require the use of a computer. Computer usage has been a real challenge for ARISS, so the VC-H1 represents a lesson learned to improve ARISS operations.

Frank Bauer, KA3HDO
ARISS International Chairman