Test 1.1.2 Instructions

Test Hardware

Test 1: Lab Test

Lab test using low power transmitter at 915 MHz to confirm signal reception and system gain (not an AX.25 signal, but close enough). These instructions assume that the receiver and most recent software are already assembled and installed. If not, accomplish the next 2 steps.
  1. Follow the instruction for "GroundSphere Kit assembly"
  2. Follow the instructions for Operations Manual - "Getting Started and Set up"

Tools Needed:
Ground Sphere test rig
915 MHz transmitter, see link above
Computer (min system reqs:_______________)
Tape Measure

Safety concerns:

Outcome Instructions:
  1. [ ] Turn on computer
  2. [ ] Tuen on the transmitter
  3. [ ] Plug the GroundSphere USB data connector into an open USB port
  4. [ ] Plug the GroundShpere power cord into a standard 120v power outlet
  5. [ ] Launch the _ software
  6. [ ] tune the transmitter to 915 MHz
  7. [ ] Set transmitter power to ____

NOTE: (This is a reasonably strong terrestrial signal, and is an unrealistically high power to expect from SkyCube)

  1. [ ] Tune the __ software to receive 915 MHz
  2. [ ] Observe the transmitted signal received by GroundSphere
  1. [ ] Move the transmitter 10 ft from the GroundSphere antenna
  2. [ ] set the transmitter power level to _______.

NOTE: (at this power level, we are simulating the signal that we expect to receive form SkyCube as it flys directly overhead of the antenna, given its orbital parameters <link to TLE file used in calculations> )

  1. [ ] Observe the transmitted signal received by GroundSphere

Test 2: Field Test

long range test using low power transmitter at 915 MHz to simulate predicted link budget (which comes from analysis) and confirm signal reception

Test 3: From Orbit Test

acquire signal from orbiting cubesat operating on 915 MHz (NPS just launched two cubesats which use the same radio and configuration as SkyCube)