Gabe Osborn
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Since I haven't seen anyone post anything similar, I thought it might be fun to post what I will be using at the fields to track my rockets. I am aware that many people may already be familiar with this equipment, but for those that arent, I believe it may be useful. Plus, everyone likes pictures right?
The system is based around Greg Clark's Big Red Bee GPS and TX transmitters. I will be operating a base station using a Yaesu FT-7900 to receive the packet data. It will then be sent out to a TinyTrak4 to decode the packets. The TinyTrak4 has an LCD attached as an aftermarket modification as suggested by the manufacturer, www.byonics.com. These two items are powered by a 9v Duracell battery. The packet data can also be sent to a laptop using Hyperterminal to display GPS coordinates. Using this method will allow you to constantly record data while you are out in the field picking up the rocket. Also used (but not shown) is a Ground Plane/JPole antenna from Arrow Antennas. It disassembles into a small package and is easy to transport. The antenna is then mounted on a PA speaker stand and will be mounted on the top of my SUV with bungees. The radio and laptop are powered by a Duracell 600 PowerPack.
Also used for tracking in the field is a Yaesu VX-6R, PICPAC from Byonics (now OOP), and a 7 element Yagi antenna from Arrow Antennas. Also used is a Garmin Etrex. The PICPAC will send the data it receives to the Etrex and it will display each packet as a waypoint, enabling you to see on a map exactly where your rocket is.
I have used both BRB TX and GPS very successfully in the past. The new rig should make it a little more fun to play with.
Here is the Flickr link
https://www.flickr.com/photos/8835109@N06/sets/72157623409842599/
The system is based around Greg Clark's Big Red Bee GPS and TX transmitters. I will be operating a base station using a Yaesu FT-7900 to receive the packet data. It will then be sent out to a TinyTrak4 to decode the packets. The TinyTrak4 has an LCD attached as an aftermarket modification as suggested by the manufacturer, www.byonics.com. These two items are powered by a 9v Duracell battery. The packet data can also be sent to a laptop using Hyperterminal to display GPS coordinates. Using this method will allow you to constantly record data while you are out in the field picking up the rocket. Also used (but not shown) is a Ground Plane/JPole antenna from Arrow Antennas. It disassembles into a small package and is easy to transport. The antenna is then mounted on a PA speaker stand and will be mounted on the top of my SUV with bungees. The radio and laptop are powered by a Duracell 600 PowerPack.
Also used for tracking in the field is a Yaesu VX-6R, PICPAC from Byonics (now OOP), and a 7 element Yagi antenna from Arrow Antennas. Also used is a Garmin Etrex. The PICPAC will send the data it receives to the Etrex and it will display each packet as a waypoint, enabling you to see on a map exactly where your rocket is.
I have used both BRB TX and GPS very successfully in the past. The new rig should make it a little more fun to play with.
Here is the Flickr link
https://www.flickr.com/photos/8835109@N06/sets/72157623409842599/