Re: [amsat-bb] Tracking software

["hasan schiers" <schiers@xxxxxxxxxx>]

Since you didn't tell us what OS your computer is using, it's kinda a shot
in the dark. I'll assume you are part of the Bill Gates Takes Over The World
Cartel and mention a few for Windows and one for DOS that runs in a DOS
Window. None of the programs listed are free. All of them can be found with
a simple google search.

I have registered all 3 programs and used them for years (except Nova, which
I added to my satellite suite about 6 months ago.)

1. Nova for Windows (32 bit)

Great eye candy. Powerful feature set. Not that easy to set up and modify.
Is fairly processor and resource intensive, so requires a decent processor
and memory. With memory so cheap these days, it shouldn't be much concern.
This program does everything but give massage, a truly impressive program
with EXCELLENT SUPPORT! Many automated features, interfaces with TRX Manager
for Doppler Radio Control. AUTOMATIC download (scheduled) of Keplerian
elements, automatic merging of new data into the existing sat database,
without shutting down the program...amazing! Demo can be downloaded.

2. LogSat Pro 5.x (Windows)

Fast, nice graphics, but no where near the equal (in appearance) of Nova.
Low processor loading, relatively low memory requirements, very easy to use,
not as powerful as Nova. The program "feels" antiquated and very little
development has taken place over the last several years. Manually updated
keplerian data. Can't recall the demo download...been too long.

3. InstaTrak (DOS)

Amsat sponsored, fast, versatile, decent feature set, but graphically
unimpressive. What is impressive is how well this program runs on minimal
machines. It has a wide array of output screens. The graphics are pretty
darn nice for a dos program, but not in the same league as either Nova (the
premier graphics sat tracker) or LogSat Pro. There is very little to
criticize with this program. It does what should be done in workmanlike
fashion. Its menu screens are not exactly intuitive, but they are fairly
easy to follow. Actually using the program is quite simple. Manually updated
keplerian data. (You download the file, then import it...works very well).

Hope this helps ya, 73

hasan schiers, N0AN

schiers@netins.net
or use amsat.org or arrl.net remailer
----- Original Message -----
From: "Tim Billingsley" <kd5ckp@centurytel.net>
To: <amsat-bb@AMSAT.Org>
Sent: Friday, July 26, 2002 12:42 PM
Subject: [amsat-bb] Tracking software


> I have seen some discussion of tracking software here and mention of
> features, but I am new to all of this and not real sure where I will go
with
> it. What I would like is to hear from you guys that use this stuff is what
> you prefer and why you like the particular package you are using or ones
you
> are using and why in each case. I don't have a lot of elaborate beams and
> rotators to contend with because I have yet to put up a tower since I have
> not acquired a rotator yet. All I have are simple homebrew antennas with
the
> exception of a Ringo Ranger a generous(now SK) Ham gave me when I first
got
> into VHF. I have a few beams in the attic but as I said no tower .... YET
>
> OK enough rambling ... consider this an opportunity to promote and
educate.
> I have looked at some packages, but am not sure which to go with. I do
> prefer the Windows programs since I have better control of the font size
on
> screen and in the help files ... I have somewhat limited vision.
>
> Looking forward to your responses
>
> ----
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