[amsat-bb] Second set of successful HT contacts on AO-51

[Emily Clarke <w0eec@xxxxxxxxx>]

Worked AO-51 on an Icom IC-W32A barefoot (no preamps, no power amps) 
tonight using a Pryme AL-800 whip antenna.  Satellite was over the Pacific 
Ocean (west of San Francisco),  It was a 45 degree pass, and I was able to 
work about 4 minutes or (about 60 degrees of azimuth() using the handheld 
which because of how my apartment sits (made of stucco and blocked by other 
staggered units.)

Worked W2WRX (who was on an Arrow), VE7WFG, K6YK and KC7USS (who uses a 
Lindenblad) while on the HT.  Probably could have worked more stations but 
ragchewed a bit looking for signal reports which were mostly full quieting  :-)

I'll try the VX-2R tomorrow.  I worked UO-14 on a Icom IC-Q7A (max output 
350mw.)  So perhaps if the VX-2R works I'll try the Q7A.

Generally I think the problem with Echo isn't the satellite - in fact far 
from it.  I was still receiving the satellite at about 2500km distant on 
the whip.  I hate to give opinions about how the control team should 
operate the satellite, but if keeping the power at it's present level will 
preserve battery life, go for it.  My personal opinion is at 500mw (same as 
AO-27) it's sweet for handheld users who have been given some training.

73,

Emily



---------------------------------
W0EEC - CM87tm
AMSAT Area Coordinator - San Francisco Bay Area
http://www.projectoscar.net    http://www.PlanetEmily.com 
http://www.emilyshouse.com/experthams/ao7/

Help Pay For Echo - http://www.amsat.org/amsat/sats/echo/index.html
--------------------------------- 
----
Sent via amsat-bb@amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author.
Not an AMSAT member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program!
To unsubscribe, send "unsubscribe amsat-bb" to Majordomo@amsat.org