Alternatives for cheaper HFRx deployment

[Victoria Hill]

Kia ora koutou (Hello all)!

I've been watching Gwyn's (G3ZIL) presentation to AMSATSA and it mentions for the HFRx that you can use the TSI TimeSync for the full scientific system or leave it out for an entry level system. Is that still correct? The reason why I'm asking is because I've set up the full scientific level system and it has cost me just under NZD $4000. It will be really difficult to convince other NZ-based Hams to contribute to the project with this price point. 

I will note that I had to start from scratch, including the mini PC, all of the cables etc, but I haven't yet bought the grounding materials or any weather-proofing for the antenna.

Thanks,

Vic

[gwyn griffiths]

Hello Vic

The majority of already-installed HFRx systems do not have a TS1. Perhaps it should be clearer on the HamSCI that the TS1 is very definitely a scientific level add-on. I certainly concur that the full system price point is a difficult sell: it is here in the UK. 

Furthermore, while the current WSPRDaemon and Sigmond packages support the TS1, and Scott Newell N5TNL has done sterling work on two prototype correlators, one drawing substantially on the WWV simulator of Phil Karn KA9Q, there is some way to go before time of flight (ToF) becomes an everyday measurement.

I have had a TS1 installed at GB0PSC Baldock, UK since early June but have yet to truly get to grips with the ToF data. With a TS1 in New Zealand, if it were me, I'd be interested in looking at ToF for short and long path signals from WWV as an early candidate for study.

Good luck with your installation.

Gwyn G3ZIL

[David Doler Jr]

Hi Vic,

The TS1 isn't a requirement in the build as of now. My station is not using it currently.

Dave

[Victoria Hill]

Thanks for your reply, David.

Are you using the 30 MHz filter pre-amp or the F3060 filter?

Vic