Category: Electronics

Electronics: Hardware, Simulation Software, Microcontrollers

RTL-SDR for AIS & ADS-B on Local Map+

Introduction In previous posts I looked at receiving both AIS & ADS-B on SDRangel (Ref.1) as well as displaying them on OpenCPN using a combination of aisdeco2 & MULTIPSK (Ref.2). The immediate application for this is for an off shore oil/exploration rig, where knowledge of local ships is important (AIS), as well as incoming/outgoing helicopters… Continue reading RTL-SDR for AIS & ADS-B on Local Map+

SDR for QO-100 Satellite Reception – Planning

Introduction Recently I read an interesting post on an sdr newsgroup discussing the Es’hail 2 satellite also known as QO-100 (Qatar Oscar 100). This is a geostationary satellite designed for DBS or direct broadcast television transmission to North Africa and the Middle East (Ref.1). The satellite has Ku (12-18GHz) and Ka (27-40GHz) band transponders for… Continue reading SDR for QO-100 Satellite Reception – Planning

RTL-SDR for Inmarsat Satellite – Dish vs Patch Antenna

Introduction In the previous post I looked at using my L band equipment to receive Inmarsat satellite signals. I was able to receive two satellites from my location at Toronto Harbourfront: 4F3 (Az=206deg) & 3F5 (Az=54deg). From my home QTH, I am only able to receive a partially blocked 3F5. I did a quick test… Continue reading RTL-SDR for Inmarsat Satellite – Dish vs Patch Antenna

RTL-SDR for Inmarsat Satellite – Planning

Introduction Inmarsat Satellite (Ref.3/4)) Inmarsat3-F3 (Launch 1998)Long = 27degEElev = 35,872Km (avg) Inmarsat3-F5 (Launch 1998)Long = 54degWElev = 35,793Km (avg)Visible QTH Inmarsat4-F1 (Launch 2005)Long = 143.5degEElev = 35,794Km (avg) Inmarsat4-F2 (Launch 2005)Long = 64degEElev = 35,794Km (avg) Inmarsat4-F3 (Launch 2008)Long = 98degWElev = 35,794Km (avg)Visible QTH Inmarsat4a-F4 (Launch 2013)Long = 25degEElev = 35,794Km (avg) Fig.2… Continue reading RTL-SDR for Inmarsat Satellite – Planning