QSSTV - makes it easy
Posted: Sun Mar 31, 2024 5:21 pm
I'm a cheapskate who likes SSTV fun. Yes, there are pay-for apps, like Black Cat https://www.blackcatsystems.com/software/sstv.html (Win, Mac $24.99 which includes I year updates. After that?) Most popular free Win app seems to be MMSTV https://hamsoft.ca/pages/mmsstv.php. I like the free and capable QSSTV for Linux https://www.qsl.net/o/on4qz/qsstv/manual/index.html though it is included in most distros.
Install the software, and configure. viewtopic.php?t=117 shows an example of a working config for Linux.
Hardware? Modern rigs that include a CAT USB double port don't need anything extra. The USB socket simultaneously takes care of rig control as well as data transfer to and from the computer. An older rig? The well-known Signalink range of add-on interfaces take care of data, though generally require a second USB cable for CAT. I like the RigExpert TI-3000 which does all the transfer easily and robust. https://rigexpert.com/products/interfaces/ti-3000/# has details.
Configuration is mostly straightforward, Callsign, QTH, Locator, communication ports to use. See the example mentioned.
When you think you have it right, see if you can receive some pictures. Most SSTV happens on 14.230. Let the software automatically identify the protocol and if you want to try a reply, send with the same one.
Hints, tips? Not many really, mostly the usual advice, listen first, and listen again. Don't try to wring the last watt from the transmitter, as an over-driven signal degrades badly, splatters and you'll be nobody's friend.
How to report a picture for strength and quality? The simplest is the P-scale, 1-4 as detailed in and the more complex but informative RSV which is covered in this fine presentation:
QSL by mail, LoTW, EQSL, ClubLog, as usual with the Mode as SSTV.
SSTV is cool, you know what a QSO sounds like, but what does the other op look like?
What pictures to send? Anything, though good to remember that you may have a family audience!
Don't worry about having a fancy station, I get a lot of fun from 100W and wire.
Maybe next time we'll do a howto for digital SSTV?
Install the software, and configure. viewtopic.php?t=117 shows an example of a working config for Linux.
Hardware? Modern rigs that include a CAT USB double port don't need anything extra. The USB socket simultaneously takes care of rig control as well as data transfer to and from the computer. An older rig? The well-known Signalink range of add-on interfaces take care of data, though generally require a second USB cable for CAT. I like the RigExpert TI-3000 which does all the transfer easily and robust. https://rigexpert.com/products/interfaces/ti-3000/# has details.
Configuration is mostly straightforward, Callsign, QTH, Locator, communication ports to use. See the example mentioned.
When you think you have it right, see if you can receive some pictures. Most SSTV happens on 14.230. Let the software automatically identify the protocol and if you want to try a reply, send with the same one.
Hints, tips? Not many really, mostly the usual advice, listen first, and listen again. Don't try to wring the last watt from the transmitter, as an over-driven signal degrades badly, splatters and you'll be nobody's friend.
How to report a picture for strength and quality? The simplest is the P-scale, 1-4 as detailed in and the more complex but informative RSV which is covered in this fine presentation:
QSL by mail, LoTW, EQSL, ClubLog, as usual with the Mode as SSTV.
SSTV is cool, you know what a QSO sounds like, but what does the other op look like?
What pictures to send? Anything, though good to remember that you may have a family audience!
Don't worry about having a fancy station, I get a lot of fun from 100W and wire.
Maybe next time we'll do a howto for digital SSTV?