SB SAT @ AMSAT $ANS-195.01
ECHO Testing Update

AMSAT News Service Bulletin 195.01 From AMSAT HQ
SILVER SPRING, MD.  July 13, 2004
To All RADIO AMATEURS
BID: $ANS-195.01

The remainder of this week is expected to be spent loading some new code,
testing the S downlink and the UHF B TX.  Note that the S downlink when in
digital mode will always be at 38k4 or higher.  It is not capable of 9k6 due
to limitations involved in making it work properly at speeds up to 76k8.  We
are pleased so far with the strength of the 2.45W S downlink.  At times the
UHF A TX (.150) will be off or at very low power. We will also be testing
transmitters at higher data rates.  Listeners should not be surprised or
alarmed if the UHF A TX is not on or if they are unable to copy it at 9k6
during some orbits.

The Command Team is carefully checking off the tests and measurements that
are part of the commissioning process.  They ask everyone to be patient.and
again, AO-51 is not yet open for use.  Any transmissions aimed at AO-51 by
other than command stations will slow down the process and delay the day
when it is open for all to use.

The coloradosatellite.com/echo web site was off line for a few hours Sunday
and Monday due to a data center move.  Stations wishing to upload telemetry
should find it on line now.

[ANS thanks Jim, WD0E for the above information]

/EX