# AMATEUR RADIO

# Amateur Television (ATV)

Amateur Television falls into two distict groups, Fast Scan Television (FSTV), and Slow Scan Television (SSTV). The two are very different to each other. SSTV, is transmitted slowly. A still colour picture, taking perhaps a minute or two to build up to completion. It operates in a similar way to a telephone fax, building up the picture one line at a time. It was originaly displayed using a modified domestic TV, with a line store (hence the use of the word TV in its name). A perfectly normal transciever and software, now enables a PC to both send and display the received pictures. SSTV is quite popular and can be found on very many of the amateur bands. FSTV is very much more specialized than voice and data. It requires dedicated transmitters and receivers, because the bandwidth required is much greater than for voice / data modes. The frequency of operation is also very high at 1 and 2 Ghz in the UHF/EHF band. This is for all intents and purposes, identical to normal colour broadcast television. Often devotees will be able to cheaply convert standard broadcast equipment, and satellite receivers for amateur use. Amateurs frequently transmit FSTV to one another either as live pictures from a camera, or recorded film/video. Sometimes these are taken whilst visiting an amateur radio rally, or during a special event. Due to the high frequency of the transmission, the range is basically line of sight. To increase the range, FSTV groups will set up specialised repeaters. These well sited repeaters allow very long distance communication. In some cases links via amateur satellites, enable the TV pictures to cover inter-continental contacts. When dealing with the higher frequencies, and especially so the EHF frequencies usually used for FSTV, the antenna must be carefully designed, along with antenna cables and connectors. FSTV enthusiasts have formed groups across the world. Web sites and discussion forums are popular to help deal with the equipment required, to pool knowledge and advice, for those wishing to participate in this fascinating side of the hobby. As a Radio Amateur this is just one more many such aspects of the hobby. A link is provided below to one of the WEB Sites where you can obtain more information. This also provides more links to other web sites that deal with amateur television. A newly licensed amateur should not expect to tackle the FSTV side of things, until he/she has gained some experience in working with radio for the above reasons. ************************************************* Web Space provided by Hostroute.com Ltd email the Project Co-ordinator