Software

Here is a listing of all the different software programs we run on our earth station computers.

Data Decode:

Instead of using a hardware TNC, we chose to go with a software TNC because it can do so much more, and it is significantly cheaper. After looking at most of the software TNCs out there, we picked MixW to do our data decoding. It is a full-featured software TNC that does even more than we would ever need. It can decode many different modes, and with some COM port drivers, it can completely replace a hardware TNC at your station. However, as you can see on our block diagrams, we do keep a hardware TNC around for backup.

Since installing MixW with the COM port drivers can be a somewhat daunting task, we have provided a step-by-step tutorial on how to get MixW working at your station. A computer made within the last three years with a soundcard is required. Check out our tutorial by clicking here.

Satellite Tracking:

Current Programs: We use two satellite tracking programs here at N6CP. One is MacDopplerPRO, which runs on two Mac computers we have at our earthstation. The other is SatPC32, which runs under WindowsXP. For satellite tracking software to be considered for our purposes, it must be able to move the antennas as well as tune the radios.

MacDopplerPRO from Dog Park Software. This is a fully graphical program for MacOS X, and it strives for complete station automation. While none of us at the earthstation really like Macs, the software and interface with the rotors and radio is rock solid. It is a real pain in the butt to update the keps and the modes, but it works every time. When configured properly, it will track rotors and tune radios.
SatPC32. Another station automation program

Legacy Programs: Legacy programs are good to double-check the Doppler shift and rotor positions. They are tried-and-true programs that just work. They are helpful when you aren't hearing your satellite and you're not sure why. Make sure to keep the Keplerian Elements updated frequently from your favorite source.

Predict by John A. Magliacane, KD2BD. This is a small terminal-based prediction program that will work on *nix and DOS platforms. It has a very clean and clear interface, and will run over an SSH connection. It will even run on the built-in terminal in MacOS X.
Instant Track from AMSAT. This is a DOS-only program. It can run on current machines, but has trouble with the screen. If you have an old DOS computer, drop this on it and practice tracking some satellites. Make sure to read the README documents.

Keplerian Elements:

About: Keplerian elements are a set of numbers used to plot the position of a satellite in space. They are really helpful in determining when a satellite will be passing overhead. Here is some webpages that describe exactly what Keplerian Elements are:

Short Tutorial - A simple introduction of Keplerian elements from AMSAT.
Long Tutorial - Detailed explanation of the elements from AMSAT.
Keplerian Elements - Another introduction with lots of pictures about the elements.
Orbital and Celestial Mechanics - Technical information about orbital mechanics.
Orbital Mechanics - Webpage about orbital mechanics from Robert A. Braeunig.
TLE Keplerian Format - Information about NASA's Two-Line element format from Ken Ernandes N2WWD.

Getting Elements:Here are links to sites where you can currently obtain Keplerian Elements for satellites:

Space Track - The official Keplerian Elements source. Requires free registration.
AMSAT - Keplerian Elements for all the amateur satellites in 2-line format.
Celestrak - Another distributor of elements. Only has permission to redistribute from SpaceTrack until 24 March 2006.

Updated 28 March 2005