Pi Slow Scan TV wins 'Make' contest

The Raspberry Pi contest, sponsored by Make, attracted nearly 40 projects. The panel of judges were impressed by the range and quality of the entrants and while the competition was close, one project rose to the top, Gerrit Polder’s Slow Scan TeleVision (SSTV) Camera.

The Raspberry Pi with the PiCam is used as a wireless camera which can transmit images over long distances, usually tenths of kilometers. Images will be transmitted by amateur radio (ham-radio) using slow scan television (SSTV) on the 2 meter band (144.5 MHz).

Since the Pi can generate the HF FM signal itself, no additional electronics are needed for low power transmissions. For a little bit more power a one or two transistor amplifier will be suitable. Furthermore a low pass filter is recommended to filter out higher harmonics of the signal.

This project also contains a Python script which detects movement. Using this script, the Raspberry Pi can be used as a wireless security cam at distances far outside the range of normal WiFi networks.

Canadian Exam update

This March 2014, Industry Canada released a new set of amateur radio exam questions based on recommendations made by RAC and launched a new exam generator.

““This is good news that we were eagerly anticipating. We were pleased to work with IC on this issue of significant importance to amateur radio operators and RAC will continue to work with Industry Canada to provide Canadian radio amateurs with the best possible circumstances to pursue their hobby.””

— Geoff Bawden, VE4BAW, President of RAC

New Exam Generator - http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/025.nsf/eng/h_00040.html

However a small number of issues have been identified with the exam and the question bank that have had to be revised (more than 6000 questions and 24000 answers considering the English and French versions of the two exam banks).

Fortunately the new system IC has developed makes it easy and quick to correct such errors.

Delaware State Police and ARES Group join forces

The Delaware State Police have announced that they are teaming up with the Sussex County Amateur Radio Emergency Service to ensure reliable back-up communications for the State Police should their primary communications system fail.

“Delaware must always be aware of the threats of hurricanes, nor’easters, severe snow, and other disasters..." said Major Robert Hawkins, DSP Sussex County Operations Officer.. "Thankfully, we don’t get hit often, but when we do, communications is absolutely essential and having amateur radio operators available to fill in gaps will be a real asset".

When back-up communications are needed, the Delaware State Police will designate locations for ARES stations to set-up.  ARES members will then maintain and pass traffic within this network.

The initial program will be limited to Sussex County, but may be expanded to include Delaware's other two counties of Kent and New Castle. Sussex County covers approximately one half of the state.  

ARES is a branch of the American Radio Relay Leagues Field Organization.  Bill Duveneck KB3KYH is ARES Emergency Coordinator for Sussex County.

Nevada Amateur Radio Newswire - http://www.nevadahamradio.com/