Panadapter on SkyRoof request

[Rocco Labella IK8XLD]

Hi Alex,

would it be possible to implement a feature in Skyroof to use a classic transceiver (RTX) for satellite operations while simultaneously using an SDR on a freely adjustable fixed frequency to monitor the RTX's IF output? (panadapter). This would allow classic RTX units to visualize the entire satellite transponder (typically 30 kHz).

Thanks!

73 Rocco IK8XLD

[Alex VE3NEA]

What you are describing is how SkyRoof actually works, except that instead of using SDR on IF we use it on RF. This allows us to see the whole satellite segment of the band when necessary, and zoom in to the transponder passband when we want.

[Rocco Labella IK8XLD]

Hi Alex,

sorry, I misspoke. What I meant was the ability to use the 10 MHz or 69 MHz IF (the first or second conversion of a classic RTX) where an SDR (like an RTL-SDR) is usually connected. This allows us to see about 30 kHz around the frequency the radio is tuned to. By doing this, we can use the same antennas already connected to the RTX for both the satellite QSO and the SDR monitor, without requiring an additional antenna. This way, SkyRoof would transform any classic radio into a modern one with a built-in waterfall.

73 Rocco IK8XLD

[Alex VE3NEA]

Hi Rocco,

SDR on the IF of a transceiver was popular 15 years ago. Today SDR receivers with direct RF sampling are quite affordable, and we no longer need to use the old approach. Why use a 30kHz receiver when the same SDR can show the whole satellite segment. Moreover, having that passband move every time the Doppler correction is performed would be a nightmare. It is much better to find a way to share your antennas between the transceiver and SDR, there are many ways to do that. In one of my setups I use a splitter between the RX In and RX Out connectors on the rear panel of the radio, in another setup I have PTRX-9700 installed in my transceiver - by far the best solution I have tried.

[Rocco Labella IK8XLD]

  Thanks anyway