[VHFcontesting] MS-EME Filters

[Les Rayburn]

Stan,

Still waiting for that first EME contact, but I’ve made hundreds of meteor scatter contacts using WSJT on 6, 2, and 222 Mhz. Contrary to what we’re used to with weak signal modes having narrow filters will not improve detection of FSK441 signals, and often hurts the ability of the software to decode the information. 

Joe Taylor could explain why, but then again, most of us with the Nobel prize probably wouldn’t understand…but trust me. You don’t need or want filters. 

I’ve used my Icom 746PRO to make any number of 6 & 2 Meter contacts. It will do just fine. 

Suggest you “get your feet” wet on 6 Meters first—and use the WSJT reflector “Ping Jockey.” Run with someone and let them know that you don’t have a lot of experience. That way, you can “talk through” the contact on the reflector. It won’t count for awards, or QSO points, but it’s the easiest way to get familiar with the software. 

As you progress, you’ll learn lots of techniques to improve the ability to pick up marginal pings. This is something most people don’t know. They think the computer does all the work, and no skill is involved. That’s no true. A good experienced operator will be able to decode signals by manipulating the software that others would miss. 

Enjoy. Meteor scatter work is thrilling and a ton of fun. Especially on 2 Meters. 



73,

Les Rayburn, N1LF
121 Mayfair Park
Maylene, AL 
EM63nf

Member WTFDA, IRCA, NRC. Former CPC Chairman for NRC & IRCA. 

Elad FDM-S2 SDR, AirSpy SDR, Quantum Phaser, Wellbrook ALA1530 Loop, Wellbrook Flag, Clifton Labs Active Whip.