BATC Wiki - User contributions [en-gb]

Portsdown 4

2021-10-20T09:17:07Z

M0DHP: /* Hardware */

The Portsdown 4 transceiver software has been specifically designed to be used with the Raspberry Pi 4 and the official Raspberry Pi 7 inch touchscreen. It will drive a Pluto SDR or the LimeSDR.

Portsdown 4 is the simplest and easiest to construct, with a barebones system consisting of:

* Raspberry Pi4 2GB model
* 7" touch screen
* 8, 16 or 32 GB SD card
* Adalm Pluto '''or''' Lime SDRmini SDR hardware

This will give you a DVB-S2 and DVB-T DATV transmit system from 30 to 3500 MHz when using a Lime SDR and 50MHz to 4100 MHz with the Pluto.

With the addition of a MiniTiouner USB receiver [[https://wiki.batc.org.uk/MiniTioune]], you will have a full spec DVB-S/S2 DATV transceiver.

With the addition of the [[Knucker|Knucker USB tuner]] you will also have DVB-T receive capabilities.

==Building a Portsdown 4==

Dave G8GKQ published this step by step guide to building a Portsdown 4 in CQ-TV 271:

[[:media:Getting Started With Portsdown 4.pdf]]

==Capabilities==

===Portsdown 4 transmit capabilities:===
* DVB-S, DVB-S2 and DVB-T (H264 only) transmissions from a Pluto SDR connected by USB
* DVB-S, DVB-S2 and DVB-T (MPEG-2 and H264) transmissions from a LimeSDR Mini or LimeSDR USB using stock LimeSDR firmware
* DVB-S and DVB-S2 (MPEG-2 and H264) transmissions from a LimeSDR Mini using "LimeDVB" firmware
* DVB-S (MPEG-2 and H264) transmissions from a DATV Express Board connected by USB
* Supported transmit video sources include the Raspberry Pi Camera, C920 WebCam or a USB-connected EasyCap composite video capture device
* Streaming to the BATC Streamer using the Raspberry Pi Camera or EasyCap composite video capture device as a source

===Portsdown 4 receive capabilities:===
When a [[MiniTioune|MiniTiouner USB receiver]] is connected via USB:
* Reception and display of DVB-S and DVB-S2 (MPEG-2, H264 and H265) signals - see [[DVB-S/S2 Reception|https://wiki.batc.org.uk/DVB-S/S2_Reception]]

When a [[Knucker|BATC Knucker USB tuner]] is connected by USB:
* Reception and display of DVB-T and DVB-T2 (MPEG-2, H264 and H265) signals

When the Portsdown 4 is connected to the internet:
* Display of streams from the BATC Streamer

Received audio can be heard through either the Raspberry Pi AV socket or a compatible USB audio dongle.

===Portsdown 4 test and alignment aids===

* Control of a Pluto, LimeSDR Mini, DATV Express, ADF4351, Elcom and SLO Microwave Sources using the [[Portsdown 4 Signal Generator]].

* Basic spectrum display of band occupancy using the "[[Portsdown Band Viewer]]" - '''note this requires a LimeSDR Mini to be connected'''.

==Hardware==

[[File:Portsdown 4 Block.PNG|600px]]

No other models of Raspberry Pi or touchscreen are planned to be supported in the near future.

===Portsdown 4 GPIO connections===

Due to a reassignment of the GPIO pins on Raspberry Pi4, the connections are different to previous generations of Portsdown.

The Portsdown 4 GPIO Connections are defined here: [[Portsdown 4 GPIO Connections]].

===Powering the LimeSDR===

The Raspberry Pi 4 has increased power capabilities on its USB ports, so it is recommended that you connect the LimeSDR directly to the Raspberry Pi. For some reason, the LimeSDR Mini sometimes works better when connected to the USB2 ports (the black ones, not the blue ones).

===Powering the Pluto===

The Raspberry Pi 4 has increased power capabilities on its USB ports, and the Pluto does not work well with USB Hubs, so it is recommended that you connect the Pluto directly to a USB3 port (the blue ones) on the Raspberry Pi 4. Do not use a USB hub or power the Pluto from its USB power port.

===Portsdown hardware===

Full details of the Portsdown hardware [[Portsdown hardware|are available here]].

==Software==

The Portsdown 4 software is available on a pre-programmed SD card which you can buy from the BATC shop https://batc.org.uk/shop/portsdown-transmitter-pre-programmed-sd-card/

If you wish to build your own card the build is on GitHub at https://github.com/BritishAmateurTelevisionClub/portsdown4

==Langstone Narrow Band Transceiver==

The Portsdown 4 software build is also compatible with the Langstone Microwave transceiver software, which can be loaded from touchscreen selections (menu 2) AFTER the Portsdown software has been installed.

See https://wiki.microwavers.org.uk/Langstone_Project for more details and the full spec of the Langstone.

Note: the Langstone software needs a '''Pluto SDR''' to be connected by USB, and a compatible USB Audio dongle.

==Pluto Capabilities==

The Portsdown 4 support for the Pluto SDR is still under development and there are some limitations on functionality as described here [[Portsdown 4 Pluto]].

==FAQ==

* Is it possible to rotate the PiCam image in software as it is on it's side?
No - you need to do the camera mounting modification which Colin G4KLB described in CQ-TV 267

* Can I upgrade from Langstone or a previous version incluing Portsdown A27?
No - you must start with a clean image on your SD card

* When I try to update I get the error "Unable to contact GitHub for update, Internet connection to Google seems OK". The solution is to log in by ssh and run the following commands:

cd /home/pi
wget https://raw.githubusercontent.com/BritishAmateurTelevisionClub/portsdown4/master/update.sh -O /home/pi/update.sh
chmod +x /home/pi/update.sh
./update.sh

* I have built my Portsdown 4 but the screen is upside down. How can I get it the right way up?

Menu 3, System Config, Invert 7 inch

==More information==

For more information and to ask any questions see https://forum.batc.org.uk/viewtopic.php?f=103&t=6804

Using LimeSDR with Portsdown

2021-10-20T07:53:49Z

M0DHP: /* Hardware Installation */

===Introduction===

The Portsdown software supports the LimeSDR Mini. Support for the LimeSDR USB is provided on a best-efforts basis, but not tested.

However, due to the limited CPU power of the Raspberry Pi, many LimeSDR transmit modes are limited to 1MS and below.

===Setting up the system===

Either buy a pre-configured SD card from the BATC shop https://batc.org.uk/category/portsdown/ or download and install the standard Portsdown software on your own SD card - see this page for more details: https://wiki.batc.org.uk/Initial_setup

===Hardware Installation===
If you are using a Rapsberry Pi 3, both the LimeSDR Mini and USB versions have a greater power consumption than the RPi can comfortably power from its USB 2 ports. Therefore, it is recommended that a powered USB 2 hub be connected to the RPi, and the LimeSDR be plugged into one of the ports on the hub.

If you are using a Raspberry Pi 4, its USB 3 ports have enough power to supply a LimeSDR Mini or USB, so a hub is not required. Make sure you connect the LimeSDR to one of the blue USB 3 ports.

The USB plug on the LimeSDR Mini is vulnerable to mechanical stress; it is recommended that the LimeSDR Mini (or LimeSDR USB) be mounted in a protective box with strain relief for a USB lead. One possible mechanical configuration is illustrated below. There are number of 3D printed cases which can be used to protect the unit [https://forum.batc.org.uk/viewtopic.php?t=5813&p=17948#p17919 see the thread on the members forum] for more details.

Charles, G4GUO, has found the LimeSDR Mini fits in to a Hammond 1455C802 box - see http://g4guo.blogspot.com/2018/05/my-lime-mini-has-box.html for more details but the USB connector may still need additional support.

The BATC 4-band and 8-band PTT drive and RF switching boards can be used with the Lime to provide band switching - see below for details on the GPIO port connections.

===Installing the Lime Software===

The LimeSuite software version 19.01.0 (Interface version v2019.1.0, Binary Interface 19.01-1) is loaded as part of the normal Portsdown build and update process. This may not be the latest version, but is compatible with other components of the Portsdown software and the latest DATV Express version.

Once installed, you can use your Portsdown to update the firmware and gateware on your LimeSDR (Mini or USB) to the compatible version, but you must be connected to the internet whilst upgrading. If you have attempted to upgrade a LimeSDR while not connected to the internet, you need to delete the 0 byte file that will have been created before you can successfully upgrade. The "Del Lime FW on RPi" button on the Lime Configuration menu does this.

===Lime Configuration Menu===

The "Lime Config" Menu is selected from Menu 3. Selecting "LimeUtil Info" displays the current version of LimeSuite.

The "Update Lime FW" button updates the Lime SDR firmware and gateware to the appropriate version for the installed LimeSuite. For Portsdown software versions 201903250 and later, the correct version is shown below. You should see the same screen after selecting "Lime FW Info".

[[File:lime129.jpg|400px]]

The Lime firmware/gateware version that works with the Portsdown is also compatible with DATV Express versions V1.25lp12 and later.

===Using a LimeSDR USB===

You can also use the more expensive LimeSDR USB (as opposed to the LimeSDR Mini) with the Portsdown. You can update the gateware and firmware to the correct version (Firmware Version 4, Gateware version 2.20), but the Lime Report will fail as it is designed for the LimeSDR Mini. The Portsdown should operate normally with a LimeSDR USB, although this is not a configuration that is tested before the release of software updates.

===Basic Test===

You can run a basic test on your LimeSDR Mini, by pressing the "Lime Report" button. Note that this test generates RF output and leaves the LimeSDR Mini generating a carrier on 1095 MHz at about -25 dBm.

==='''WARNING - High Power Output During Calibration Before Transmit'''===

When the LimeSDR is put into transmit mode, it first performs a self-calibration which transmits at high power both in-band and out-of-band. It is imperative that power amplifiers are not energised during this phase or they will be damaged and/or strong illegal transmissions will be made out-of-band.

[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GzZPBaIANwE First power tests with Lime Mini SDR Portsdown at M0YDH]

There are 2 delayed PTT signals available to help you avoid this situation. The first is on the normal Portsdown PTT pin on the RPi. The second is on GPIO 7 on the LimeSDR Mini or Lime SDR USB. None of these signals go high until calibration is finished.

===Transmitting===

Select Lime Mini or Lime USB from the "Output to" Menu. The detected device should be "not greyed out". On Menu 1, you will see the Lime Gain button for the appropriate band (distinct Lime Gains between 0 and 100 are stored for each band). A setting of 88 is a good starting point for about 5 dBm of output at 437 MHz. More information about the LimeSDR Mini output power levels and controls can be found here [[LimeSDR Mini Output Power Levels]].

Selecting the modulation button will allow you to choose between Carrier, DVB-S and DVB-S2 modes. Once a DVB-S2 mode is selected, the appropriate FECs are available on the FEC button. Note that different FECs are available (and not available) for different modulations.

'''The RPi has to work quite hard to generate the signals to drive the LimeSDR. All SRs at 1MS and below seem to be reliable, but SRs of 2MS and 4MS can suffer drop-outs, particularly in MPEG-2 transmission modes. For operation above 1MS, the Portsdown Filter-Modulator board is recommended, rather than the LimeSDR.'''

===Limitations===

There are 3 transmission modes used by the LimeSDR with Portsdown: SDR without up-sampling, SDR with 2 x up-sampling and carrier mode. I have tried to level the powers across these 3 modes, but they will vary by 2 or 3 dB depending on the SR and Lime gain selected.

There is a failure mode where the LimeSDR refuses to transmit anything other than a carrier, or does not respond at all. It has not been possible to overcome these failures yet in software; the solution is to power down the LimeSDR (by disconnecting the power '''and''' USB leads), and then to reconnect them.

===GPIO RF Switching for Multiple Bands===

The BATC 4-band and 8-band PTT drive and RF switching boards can be used with the LimeSDR to provide multiband RF and PTT steering. They can remain connected to the RPi GPIO using the standard Portsdown GPIO interface board or (if you are prepared to accept the risk of damaging your LimeSDR Mini) connected to the Lime FPGA GPIO.

The LimeSDR Mini GPIOs 0, 1 and 2 give the same signals as the RPi Band LSB, NSB and MSB. GPIO 7 gives the PTT signal. These can be taken from J5 on the LimeSDR Mini https://wiki.myriadrf.org/LimeSDR-Mini_v1.1_hardware_description . For the LimeSDR USB, the GPIO signals are available on J18; the PTT signal is reported to be on FPGA-GPIO 5 (pin 8 in header), but this has not been investigated.
The pins are described here http://wiki.myriadrf.org/LimeSDR-USB_hardware_description. Note that these outputs are not buffered and if damaged could prevent the LimeSDR from working again. '''Our advice is the use the RPi GPIOs.'''

[[File:GPIO Test.jpg|816px]]

The gain provided by the [[8-Band_RF_Output_Switch|8-way RF switch]] is useful to maintain current levels (5 - 10 mW) at the output. To ensure the correct output levels are available, C16 (2p7) needs reducing to 1pf, and R5 (68 ohms) needs replacing with a wire link. Alternatively R5 could be simply be replaced with a 2p2 or 1p8 capacitor and C16 left as 2p7.

On the Lime USB the output is from "TX1 Low" below 2 GHz and from "TX1 High" above 2 GHz. The Lime Mini only has a single output.

===System Diagram===

Here is the latest system diagram. Note that only one of the displays is required; either the 3.5 inch or 7 inch.

[[File:20190120 Portsdown 2019 Block.jpg|960px]]

The digital variable attenuator is only required if you want fine (<3 dB steps) control over your PA drive levels. The Lime Gain control on the Portsdown can be used to set the coarse output level.

===Acknowledgements===

Thanks to Evariste F5OEO, Andrew Back at Myriad RF, Charles G4GUO and Malcolm G0UHY for their help in implementing this capability.

The Portsdown DATV transceiver system

2021-10-19T22:09:39Z

M0DHP: /* RF Generator and DATV Modulator */

The Portsdown DATV transceiver project provides an easy way to “get on air” with Digital ATV at a relatively low cost covering all of the commonly used DATV modes enabling it to be used for cross town QSOs, accessing ATV repeaters and for working the DX using Reduced bandwidth (RB-TV) modes.

==Introduction==

The aim of the Portsdown project is to enable an amateur radio operator with little or no knowledge of Digital ATV to construct the hardware elements, load and configure the software and use the system to send live Digital ATV signals across town on his existing aerials.

'''New builders are recommended to build a Portsdown 4 which, when used with an Adalm Pluto, is integrated with the Langstone Microwave transceiver software enabling an advanced multimode narrowband and DATV transceiver covering 70Mhz to 6GHz for under £350. Full details on the Portsdown 4 [[Portsdown 4|are on this wiki page]].
'''

==Outline specification==

Outline specification of the Portsdown 4 system is as follows:

• Frequency coverage depends on the SDR used but covers 50, 71, 146 MHz, 437 MHz, 23cms, 13cms and 3.4GHz bands.

• MPEG-2 and MPEG-4 (H264) video encoding

• DVB-S, DVB-S2 and DVB-t transmission and reception

• DATV receiver capabilities using external MiniTiouner hardware

• Cost-effective stand-alone (not PC based) Digital TV Transmit and receive solution

• Wide range of Symbol rates from 125 Ks to 4Ms* including Reduced Bandwidth (RB-TV) modes and “normal” DATV modes

• Analogue video input to allow use of camcorders and mixing desks

• Use of commonly available components and modules

• Modular construction enabling a step-by-step system build and easy trouble shooting

• Designed to encourage home construction and requiring an average skill level

• Fully documented and supported including easy software installation and upgrades

==System overview==

At the heart of the Portsdown system is a Raspberry Pi (RPi) computer running a BATC customised version of the F5OEO rpidatv software.

The choice of the RPi is primarily due to the fact that it has an on-board MPEG-4 (H264) encoder and the versatile hardware interface (GPIO) capabilities.

[[File:Portsdown 4 Block.PNG|500px]]

A touch screen interface enables the system to be used as a standalone unit without further need to connect up keyboard and mouse. If the LCD is not available, the system can be controlled by using an external PC connected over a wired or wi-fi network (console mode).

[[File:P4menu1.jpg|484px]]

====RF Generator and DATV Modulator====

Depending on the version (see below) the output from the RPi is connected to one of the following units which modulates the RF carrier and produces the DVB-S or DVB-S2 DATV signal.

* BATC Filter Modulator board - first used in Portsdown 2018 Classic but no longer available
* DATV Express Board - first used in Portsdown 2018 Classic but no longer available
* LimeSDR (Mini or USB)
* Adalm Pluto

====Audio and video inputs====

The Portsdown transmitter will take audio and video inputs from the RPi camera, an EasyCap composite video USB dongle, C920 webcam and a USB sound card / dongle - all these are readily available from ebay and Amazon.

====Portsdown DATV receiver====

On Portsdown 2020 and Portsdown 4, if you plug your [[MiniTioune|MiniTuioner USB receiver hardware]] into the RPi USB port and select "Rx" on the top level menu, you will have access to a fully functional DATV receiver.

The received signal is displayed on the 7" touch screen. It is also available as a UDP output on the network enabling it to be viewed on a larger PC using VLC or a similar software.

For more details on DATV receptions see [[DVB-S/S2 Reception|https://wiki.batc.org.uk/DVB-S/S2_Reception]]

==Further information==

===Portsdown Hardware===

Full details of all the hardware required to build a Portsdown system is listed here [[Portsdown hardware]]

===Technical Index===

An index of technical reference pages for the Portsdown system can be found here [[Portsdown Technical Index]].

==Portsdown Evolution==

There are now 4 distinct Portsdown versions:

===Portsdown 4===

The latest version of the Portsdown is the [[Portsdown 4]]. This uses the Raspios Buster operating system on a Raspberry Pi 4 with a 7 inch screen and a LimeSDR or ADALM Pluto. Unlike the previous version changes, it does not maintain hardware compatibility with the classic (filter-modulator) Portsdown.

'''New builders are recommended to build a Portsdown 4 which, when used with a Adalm Pluto, is integrated with the Langstone Microwave transceiver software enabling an advanced multimode narrowband and DATV transceiver covering 70 MHz to 4 GHz for under £500.
'''

The first release of the Portsdown 4 was in late July 2020. Constructors can build their own SD Cards using the install file on GitHub [https://github.com/BritishAmateurTelevisionClub/portsdown4 BATC Portsdown 4 GitHub Page]. Pre-programmed SD Cards are also available from the BATC Shop.

===Portsdown 2020 Buster===

The Portsdown 2020 is Rpi3 based running Buster operating system - [[Portsdown 2020]]. This introduces support for the LimeDVB firmware on the LimeSDR Mini and also supports the use of standard firmware on the LimeSDR USB and the LimeNET Micro.

The LongMynd receive capability has been improved with the addition of a player that will display some H265 signals. It will also control an external Jetson Nano with an HDMI capture device to allow the transmission of high definition H265 signals.

This version will continue to be actively supported while the Buster operating system is current for the Raspberry Pi. No date has yet been set for the release of the next operating system version (Bullseye).

===Portsdown 2019 Stretch===

This was the second version, using the Raspbian Stretch Operating System - [[Portsdown 2019]]. Support for the 7 inch touchscreen was added and some WebCams could also be used as a video source. Audio capability was added for H264 encoding, and early support was provided for the LimeSDR Mini.

Later versions also supported the LongMynd receive software enabling good DATV reception using a MiniTiouner.

Again, this version is no longer supported, although it will continue to work as built.

===Portsdown 2018 Classic===

The original version was launched in 2017 - [[Portsdown 2018]]. It was based on the Raspbian Jessie operating system running on a Raspberry Pi 3 with a 3.5 inch touchscreen. It used the BATC-supplied Filter-Modulator board and could take video from the Raspberry Pi Camera or the EasyCap. It would transmit DVB-S MPEG-2 with audio, or H264 without audio.

This version is no longer supported, although it will continue to work as built.

Portsdown hardware

2021-10-19T19:26:29Z

M0DHP: /* Raspberry Pi */

This page describes all the hardware modules and interconnections required to build the Portsdown DATV system.

Not all the hardware is required before the transmitter can start to be tested – an incremental approach is described here to allow constructors to gain confidence as they assemble the parts.

===Raspberry Pi ===

The first item required is a standard Raspberry Pi - this can be a Pi 3 or Pi 4 depending upon the Portsdown version you are building. These are available from many suppliers and we suggest you just buy a Raspberry Pi without any additional boards or SD cards as you will be using specific Portsdown hardware and software. If you are starting a new build, the Raspberry Pi 4 Model B with 2 GB of RAM is recommended (4 GB or 8 GB or RAM will work, but costs more for no performance advantage).

The Raspberry Pi 4 can run hot, so using a heatsink case or fan to cool it is recommended.

===Power Supplies ===

You will also need a GOOD 3amp 5v power supply for the Raspberry Pi.

You should power a Pi 4 via the GPIO pins but always power a RPi 3 through the Micro-USB power connector to take advantage of the input protection provided. Use a very short USB cable to your power supply as most of these cables are of very poor quality and cause a significant voltage drop.

If you see a "Lightning Flash" symbol at the top right of your LCD display it means that the voltage at the RPi is too low. You can measure the voltage between the GPIO connector pins 4 and 6.

[[File:flash.jpg|200px]]

A lot of strange problems, such as the Portsdown running very slowly, can be caused by poor PSU volts - the RPi is actually specified for 5.1 volts, so make sure that your PSU delivers enough volts and current. See [https://forum.batc.org.uk/viewtopic.php?t=4856&p=11935#p11935 this post on the BATC forum] for a real user experience!

You may also need a 12 volt DC supply to power the other Portsdown components.

===Micro-SD Card===

You then need an SD card with the Portsdown software on it.

The easiest way is to buy a pre-programmed SD Card from the [https://batc.org.uk/shop/portsdown-transmitter-pre-programmed-sd-card/ BATC shop].

OR if you want to have a go at loading the software yourself you will need to or purchase a '''good quality card''' from another source and follow the instructions described [[Portsdown software|here]]. The 8 GB, 16 GB or 32 GB SanDisk Ultra (the red and grey one) is recommended - DO NOT use cheap copies.

===LCD Touchscreen===

The touchscreen is required to control the transmitter without the use of another computer.

'''Do not buy a touchscreen that connects through the RPi HDMI connector - it is NOT supported.'''

===7" Touchscreen===

The Portsdown 4 ONLY works with the Official Raspberry Pi 7" touchscreen (often referred to as a "7 inch Element 14 touchscreen"). The Portsdown 2020 works best with this screen, but can also use the 3.5 inch screen (below).

[[File:7_inch_screen.jpg|400px]]

Note that if you use the 7-inch screen, you do not need to connect the 3 data leads between the screen and the RPi - only ground and +5v.

===3.5" Touchscreen"===

'''Note this is NOT supported on the Portsdown 4.'''

The other supported touchscreen on Portsdown 2020 is a 3.5 inch diagonal Waveshare Raspberry Pi LCD (Model A, not Model B).

To mount the Waveshare screen away from the RPi, you could use this extension cable: https://thepihut.com/products/adafruit-gpio-extender-cable-for-raspberry-pi-model-a-b-26pin-12-long Just make sure that you triple-check the connections and pin orientation before connecting the screen. They do not tolerate incorrect connection as several of us have found out! Alternatively, you can make one yourself from a discarded 3.5 inch floppy drive and its lead.

Further information on screens can be found here [[Portsdown Displays]] and information on display resolutions can be found here [[Display Resolutions|PAL/NTSC and Display Resolutions]].

Mounting the Waveshare LCD Touchscreen can be a challenge! This 3D print design mounts it flat to the panel: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1941701
This 3D print design mounts it at an angle: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1920486.

Note that, when mounted, none of the touchscreen sensitive areas should be in contact with the surround.

===GPIO Extender Card===

In the completed unit, there are a number of signals that need to be routed in or out of the GPIO interface on the RPi. Plus we need to break out all 40 pins of the GPIO, and have another connector on top for the Waveshare LCD display (if used). Because of this the Portsdown team have designed a PCB for the job - the blank PCB for this is available from the BATC shop.

Buying an extender card early in the project reduces the chance of damage to the RPi and allows these connections to be made safely.

[[File:screw t.jpg|400px]]

The BATC card is very simple to construct with no components other than plugs and sockets.

For full construction details and a list of suppliers for the plugs and sockets see [[GPIO breakout|the GPIO breakout page]]

You can buy the GPIO Extender Card blank PCB from the [https://batc.org.uk/shop/portsdown-transmitter-gpio-breakout-board-blank-pcb/ Portsdown section in the BATC shop - item 3]

===LimeSDR Mini===

The Portsdown system can use the LimeSDR Mini (or LimeSDR USB) to provide the modulator and RF generator functions.

[[File:LimeMini.jpg|400px]]

[[Using LimeSDR with Portsdown|See this page]] for more details on using the LimeSDR Mini in a Portsdown system.

===Pluto SDR===

The Portsdown 4 uses the Pluto SDR connected via the USB port to provide the modulator and RF generator functions.

See this page for more details: [[Portsdown_4_Pluto]]

----------------------

'''You now have the components for a fully working Portsdown transmitter!

---------------------

'''''However, you will need a camera and audio input to transmit pictures and sound.'''''

===Raspberry Pi Camera===

If you want to transmit live pictures you will need a camera. The standard Pi camera gives excellent results but will need mounting in a housing and does not have audio input.

Raspberry Pi Camera: CPC Farnell http://cpc.farnell.com/raspberry-pi/rpi-8mp-camera-board/raspberry-pi-camera-board-8mp/dp/SC14028

===Optional RPi camera Extension Lead Kit===

The RPi camera gives excellent results, but only comes with a short ribbon cable to connect it to the RPi.

It is possible to use some higher quality HDMI leads (the ground connections all need to be made) to extend the camera lead - this does NOT mean the signal out of the camera is HDMI, it is actually "Camera Serial Interface Type 2 (CSI-2)". We are just using HDMI cable as a useful extension lead.

Kits are available to connect a female HDMI connector to the RPi camera connector, and another female to the camera, allowing the use of domestic 1, 2 and 3m HDMI leads.

RPi Camera HDMI Lead Extension Kit: https://www.tindie.com/products/freto/pi-camera-hdmi-cable-extension/

There are 2 modifications that can be made to enable lower quality HDMI leads (those without all the ground connections made, or even the CEC wire on pin 13 missing) to be used. Full details of these modifications [[CSI-2 to HDMI|are available here.]]

===WebCams===

Some WebCams work with the Portsdown, but it has proved very difficult to support more than a few specific models. The Portsdown 2020 works with the older (pre-2019) versions of the Logitech C920. The Portsdown 4 works with all (3) versions of the C920 and with the Logitech C170. More details on webcams here [[Portsdown Webcams]].

===Composite Video Capture Device===

The transmitter is also capable of working with a USB-connected “EasyCap” dongle to capture PAL composite video from camcorders and analogue mixers etc.

There are at least 4 similar devices being marketed under this name on eBay, each with different chipsets, but only the Fushicai "USBTV007" brand is guaranteed to work.

[[File:Fushicai.JPG|200px]]

===Audio Capture Device===

eBay provides a good source for very cheap audio capture USB dongles, which can provide an audio input to go with the RPi camera.

Audio Capture Device: Source from eBay - for example: http://www.ebay.co.uk/sch/Laptop-Desktop-Accessories/31530/i.html?_from=R40&_nkw=usb%20audio%20adapter&_dcat=75518&Channels=2%252E0&rt=nc&_trksid=p2045573.m1684

The software version 201707220 introduced audio source switching between audio and video capture devices. A list of devices that are supported by this audio switching is [[Audio Device List|here]].

-----------------------------
'''That completes the basic Portsdown transmitter shopping list'''

---------------------
'''''However, the team has designed some additional components to enable you to build a complete DATV transmit system'''''

===RF Switching===

The complete RF switching arrangement illustrated below allows you to select the output from the Lime SDR or Pluto, adjust the exact level and then route the RF to any one of 8 PAs or transverters. All the blocks in the diagram are optional; however, you can build a very comprehensive system if you want to. Note that the 4-way decode and switch boards can be substituted for the 8-way decode and switch boards.

[[File:20190511 Portsdown RF Switching.jpg|600px]]

===4-Band RF Output Switch===

The Portsdown team have developed a 4-Band RF output switch capable of switching the low level output of the Lime Mini / Pluto to separate amplifiers for the 70, 144, 437 and 1255 MHz bands. Note: due to potential high insertion loss, it is not recommended to use the switch above 23cms.

[[File:Pd out SW.jpg|300px]]

Full details including parts list and schematic are available [[RF output switch|on this wiki page]].

===4-Band Decode Switch===

The Portsdown provides band switching and PTT outputs on the GPIO pins - these outputs need to be decoded to provide an output for each band.

[[File:Band decoder.JPG|200px]]

The Portsdown team have designed a simple board for switching between 4 bands and buffering the PTT signal which can be either constructed on 0.1” perforated board (veroboard) or on a PCB - this can be home etched.
Full details on the board including circuit etc [[PTT and band switching|are available here.]]
Blank PCBs are available in the [https://batc.org.uk/shop/portsdown-transmitter-4-band-decode-blank-pcb/ BATC shop - item 5].

===8-Band RF Output Switch===

For those of you who also want to drive Microwave transverters from your Portsdown, the team have developed an 8-Band RF output switch that includes an RF amplifier. It is designed to be used with the Output Attenuator (see below). It will be capable of amplifying the variable level from the attenuator and switching it to separate amplifiers for the 70, 144, 437 and 1255 MHz bands, and to 4 transverters for the higher bands. PCBs are on order and will be available from the BATC Shop.

Full details including parts list and schematic are available [[8-Band RF Output Switch|on this wiki page]].
Blank PCBs are available in the [https://batc.org.uk/shop/portsdown-8-way-rf-output-switch-blank-pcb/ BATC shop - item 9].

===8-Band Decoder===

This 8-band decoder is designed to work with the 8-band RF output switch and the Portsdown software. It will provide switching signals (either always on, or PTT activated) to 4 Power Amplifiers and 4 transverters, and it also enables you to set which VCO filter should be switched in for the 4 transverter outputs. PCBs are on order and will be available from the BATC Shop.

Full details on the board including circuit etc [[8-Band Decoder|are available here.]]
Blank PCBs are available in the [https://batc.org.uk/shop/portsdown-8-band-decode-blank-pcb/ BATC shop - item 7].

===8-Band Decode PIC===

This is the pre=programmed PIC to control the custom designed 8 band decode board for the Portsdown transmitter.

Blank PCBs are available in the [https://batc.org.uk/shop/portsdown-8-band-decode-pic/ BATC shop - item 8].

===2-Way RF Switch===

Not required for Portsdown 4.

This switch allows you to route the outputs from the Portsdown 2017 Filter Modulator card and a LimeSDR to a single PA, enabling both to be used without reconfiguration. Full details on this Wiki page [[2-Way RF Switch]].

===Filters and PA drivers===

It is absolutely essential that the Portsdown transmitter output is followed by suitable bandpass filters.
These are not included as part of the project but a [[Filters|number of designs and suppliers are listed here.]]

===Output Attenuator===

Although NOT required when using the Lime Mini or Pluto SDR, the Portsdown can use an electronically switched attenuator to adjust the transmit drive level for each band. Attenuators based on the PE4302, HMC1119 or PE43703 (preferred) are supported.

[[File:PE43073 post-mod small.jpg|400px]]

These attenuators are available on eBay. Full details and wiring instructions are detailed here: [[Output Attenuator]].

Portsdown 4

2021-10-19T14:24:46Z

M0DHP: /* Portsdown 4 receive capabilities: */

The Portsdown 4 transceiver software has been specifically designed to be used with the Raspberry Pi 4 and the official Raspberry Pi 7 inch touchscreen. It will drive a Pluto SDR or the LimeSDR.

Portsdown 4 is the simplest and easiest to construct, with a barebones system consisting of:

* Raspberry Pi4 2GB model
* 7" touch screen
* 8, 16 or 32 GB SD card
* Adalm Pluto '''or''' Lime SDRmini SDR hardware

This will give you a DVB-S2 and DVB-T DATV transmit system from 30 to 3500 MHz when using a Lime SDR and 50MHz to 4100 MHz with the Pluto.

With the addition of a MiniTiouner USB receiver [[https://wiki.batc.org.uk/MiniTioune]], you will have a full spec DVB-S/S2 DATV transceiver.

With the addition of the [[Knucker|Knucker USB tuner]] you will also have DVB-T receive capabilities.

==Building a Portsdown 4==

Dave G8GKQ published this step by step guide to building a Portsdown 4 in CQ-TV 271:

[[:media:Getting Started With Portsdown 4.pdf]]

==Capabilities==

===Portsdown 4 transmit capabilities:===
* DVB-S, DVB-S2 and DVB-T (H264 only) transmissions from a Pluto SDR connected by USB
* DVB-S, DVB-S2 and DVB-T (MPEG-2 and H264) transmissions from a LimeSDR Mini or LimeSDR USB using stock LimeSDR firmware
* DVB-S and DVB-S2 (MPEG-2 and H264) transmissions from a LimeSDR Mini using "LimeDVB" firmware
* DVB-S (MPEG-2 and H264) transmissions from a DATV Express Board connected by USB
* Supported transmit video sources include the Raspberry Pi Camera, C920 WebCam or a USB-connected EasyCap composite video capture device
* Streaming to the BATC Streamer using the Raspberry Pi Camera or EasyCap composite video capture device as a source

===Portsdown 4 receive capabilities:===
When a [[MiniTioune|MiniTiouner USB receiver]] is connected via USB:
* Reception and display of DVB-S and DVB-S2 (MPEG-2, H264 and H265) signals - see [[DVB-S/S2 Reception|https://wiki.batc.org.uk/DVB-S/S2_Reception]]

When a [[Knucker|BATC Knucker USB tuner]] is connected by USB:
* Reception and display of DVB-T and DVB-T2 (MPEG-2, H264 and H265) signals

When the Portsdown 4 is connected to the internet:
* Display of streams from the BATC Streamer

Received audio can be heard through either the Raspberry Pi AV socket or a compatible USB audio dongle.

===Portsdown 4 test and alignment aids===

* Control of a Pluto, LimeSDR Mini, DATV Express, ADF4351, Elcom and SLO Microwave Sources using the [[Portsdown 4 Signal Generator]].

* Basic spectrum display of band occupancy using the "[[Portsdown Band Viewer]]" - '''note this requires a LimeSDR Mini to be connected'''.

==Hardware==

[[File:Portsdown 4 Block.PNG|600px]]

No other models of Raspberry Pi or touchscreen are planned to be supported in the near future.

===Portsdown 4 GPIO connections===

Due to a reassignment of the GPIO pins on Raspberry Pi4, the connections are different to previous generations of Portsdown.

The Portsdown 4 GPIO Connections are defined here: [[Portsdown 4 GPIO Connections]].

===Powering the Pluto===

The Raspberry Pi 4 has increased power capabilities on its USB ports, and the Pluto does not work well with USB Hubs, so it is recommended that you connect the Pluto directly to a USB3 port (the blue ones) on the Raspberry Pi 4. Do not use a USB hub or power the Pluto from its USB power port.

===Portsdown hardware===

Full details of the Portsdown hardware [[Portsdown hardware|are available here]].

==Software==

The Portsdown 4 software is available on a pre-programmed SD card which you can buy from the BATC shop https://batc.org.uk/shop/portsdown-transmitter-pre-programmed-sd-card/

If you wish to build your own card the build is on GitHub at https://github.com/BritishAmateurTelevisionClub/portsdown4

==Langstone Narrow Band Transceiver==

The Portsdown 4 software build is also compatible with the Langstone Microwave transceiver software, which can be loaded from touchscreen selections (menu 2) AFTER the Portsdown software has been installed.

See https://wiki.microwavers.org.uk/Langstone_Project for more details and the full spec of the Langstone.

Note: the Langstone software needs a '''Pluto SDR''' to be connected by USB, and a compatible USB Audio dongle.

==Pluto Capabilities==

The Portsdown 4 support for the Pluto SDR is still under development and there are some limitations on functionality as described here [[Portsdown 4 Pluto]].

==FAQ==

* Is it possible to rotate the PiCam image in software as it is on it's side?
No - you need to do the camera mounting modification which Colin G4KLB described in CQ-TV 267

* Can I upgrade from Langstone or a previous version incluing Portsdown A27?
No - you must start with a clean image on your SD card

* When I try to update I get the error "Unable to contact GitHub for update, Internet connection to Google seems OK". The solution is to log in by ssh and run the following commands:

cd /home/pi
wget https://raw.githubusercontent.com/BritishAmateurTelevisionClub/portsdown4/master/update.sh -O /home/pi/update.sh
chmod +x /home/pi/update.sh
./update.sh

* I have built my Portsdown 4 but the screen is upside down. How can I get it the right way up?

Menu 3, System Config, Invert 7 inch

==More information==

For more information and to ask any questions see https://forum.batc.org.uk/viewtopic.php?f=103&t=6804

Portsdown 4

2021-10-19T14:21:51Z

M0DHP: /* Langstone Narrow band transceiver */

The Portsdown 4 transceiver software has been specifically designed to be used with the Raspberry Pi 4 and the official Raspberry Pi 7 inch touchscreen. It will drive a Pluto SDR or the LimeSDR.

Portsdown 4 is the simplest and easiest to construct, with a barebones system consisting of:

* Raspberry Pi4 2GB model
* 7" touch screen
* 8, 16 or 32 GB SD card
* Adalm Pluto '''or''' Lime SDRmini SDR hardware

This will give you a DVB-S2 and DVB-T DATV transmit system from 30 to 3500 MHz when using a Lime SDR and 50MHz to 4100 MHz with the Pluto.

With the addition of a MiniTiouner USB receiver [[https://wiki.batc.org.uk/MiniTioune]], you will have a full spec DVB-S/S2 DATV transceiver.

With the addition of the [[Knucker|Knucker USB tuner]] you will also have DVB-T receive capabilities.

==Building a Portsdown 4==

Dave G8GKQ published this step by step guide to building a Portsdown 4 in CQ-TV 271:

[[:media:Getting Started With Portsdown 4.pdf]]

==Capabilities==

===Portsdown 4 transmit capabilities:===
* DVB-S, DVB-S2 and DVB-T (H264 only) transmissions from a Pluto SDR connected by USB
* DVB-S, DVB-S2 and DVB-T (MPEG-2 and H264) transmissions from a LimeSDR Mini or LimeSDR USB using stock LimeSDR firmware
* DVB-S and DVB-S2 (MPEG-2 and H264) transmissions from a LimeSDR Mini using "LimeDVB" firmware
* DVB-S (MPEG-2 and H264) transmissions from a DATV Express Board connected by USB
* Supported transmit video sources include the Raspberry Pi Camera, C920 WebCam or a USB-connected EasyCap composite video capture device
* Streaming to the BATC Streamer using the Raspberry Pi Camera or EasyCap composite video capture device as a source

===Portsdown 4 receive capabilities:===
When a [[MiniTioune|MiniTiouner USB receiver]] is connected via USB:
* Reception and display of DVB-S and DVB-S2 (MPEG-2, H264 and H265) signals - see [[DVB-S/S2 Reception|https://wiki.batc.org.uk/DVB-S/S2_Reception]]

When a [[Knucker|BATC Knucker USB tuner]] is connected by USB:
* Reception and display of DVB-T and DVB-T2 (MPEG-2, H264 and H265) signals

When the Portsdown 4 is connected to the internet:
* Display of streams from the BATC Streamer

===Portsdown 4 test and alignment aids===

* Control of a Pluto, LimeSDR Mini, DATV Express, ADF4351, Elcom and SLO Microwave Sources using the [[Portsdown 4 Signal Generator]].

* Basic spectrum display of band occupancy using the "[[Portsdown Band Viewer]]" - '''note this requires a LimeSDR Mini to be connected'''.

==Hardware==

[[File:Portsdown 4 Block.PNG|600px]]

No other models of Raspberry Pi or touchscreen are planned to be supported in the near future.

===Portsdown 4 GPIO connections===

Due to a reassignment of the GPIO pins on Raspberry Pi4, the connections are different to previous generations of Portsdown.

The Portsdown 4 GPIO Connections are defined here: [[Portsdown 4 GPIO Connections]].

===Powering the Pluto===

The Raspberry Pi 4 has increased power capabilities on its USB ports, and the Pluto does not work well with USB Hubs, so it is recommended that you connect the Pluto directly to a USB3 port (the blue ones) on the Raspberry Pi 4. Do not use a USB hub or power the Pluto from its USB power port.

===Portsdown hardware===

Full details of the Portsdown hardware [[Portsdown hardware|are available here]].

==Software==

The Portsdown 4 software is available on a pre-programmed SD card which you can buy from the BATC shop https://batc.org.uk/shop/portsdown-transmitter-pre-programmed-sd-card/

If you wish to build your own card the build is on GitHub at https://github.com/BritishAmateurTelevisionClub/portsdown4

==Langstone Narrow Band Transceiver==

The Portsdown 4 software build is also compatible with the Langstone Microwave transceiver software, which can be loaded from touchscreen selections (menu 2) AFTER the Portsdown software has been installed.

See https://wiki.microwavers.org.uk/Langstone_Project for more details and the full spec of the Langstone.

Note: the Langstone software needs a '''Pluto SDR''' to be connected by USB, and a compatible USB Audio dongle.

==Pluto Capabilities==

The Portsdown 4 support for the Pluto SDR is still under development and there are some limitations on functionality as described here [[Portsdown 4 Pluto]].

==FAQ==

* Is it possible to rotate the PiCam image in software as it is on it's side?
No - you need to do the camera mounting modification which Colin G4KLB described in CQ-TV 267

* Can I upgrade from Langstone or a previous version incluing Portsdown A27?
No - you must start with a clean image on your SD card

* When I try to update I get the error "Unable to contact GitHub for update, Internet connection to Google seems OK". The solution is to log in by ssh and run the following commands:

cd /home/pi
wget https://raw.githubusercontent.com/BritishAmateurTelevisionClub/portsdown4/master/update.sh -O /home/pi/update.sh
chmod +x /home/pi/update.sh
./update.sh

* I have built my Portsdown 4 but the screen is upside down. How can I get it the right way up?

Menu 3, System Config, Invert 7 inch

==More information==

For more information and to ask any questions see https://forum.batc.org.uk/viewtopic.php?f=103&t=6804

Portsdown 4

2021-10-19T14:19:17Z

M0DHP: /* Portsdown 4 receive capabilities: */

The Portsdown 4 transceiver software has been specifically designed to be used with the Raspberry Pi 4 and the official Raspberry Pi 7 inch touchscreen. It will drive a Pluto SDR or the LimeSDR.

Portsdown 4 is the simplest and easiest to construct, with a barebones system consisting of:

* Raspberry Pi4 2GB model
* 7" touch screen
* 8, 16 or 32 GB SD card
* Adalm Pluto '''or''' Lime SDRmini SDR hardware

This will give you a DVB-S2 and DVB-T DATV transmit system from 30 to 3500 MHz when using a Lime SDR and 50MHz to 4100 MHz with the Pluto.

With the addition of a MiniTiouner USB receiver [[https://wiki.batc.org.uk/MiniTioune]], you will have a full spec DVB-S/S2 DATV transceiver.

With the addition of the [[Knucker|Knucker USB tuner]] you will also have DVB-T receive capabilities.

==Building a Portsdown 4==

Dave G8GKQ published this step by step guide to building a Portsdown 4 in CQ-TV 271:

[[:media:Getting Started With Portsdown 4.pdf]]

==Capabilities==

===Portsdown 4 transmit capabilities:===
* DVB-S, DVB-S2 and DVB-T (H264 only) transmissions from a Pluto SDR connected by USB
* DVB-S, DVB-S2 and DVB-T (MPEG-2 and H264) transmissions from a LimeSDR Mini or LimeSDR USB using stock LimeSDR firmware
* DVB-S and DVB-S2 (MPEG-2 and H264) transmissions from a LimeSDR Mini using "LimeDVB" firmware
* DVB-S (MPEG-2 and H264) transmissions from a DATV Express Board connected by USB
* Supported transmit video sources include the Raspberry Pi Camera, C920 WebCam or a USB-connected EasyCap composite video capture device
* Streaming to the BATC Streamer using the Raspberry Pi Camera or EasyCap composite video capture device as a source

===Portsdown 4 receive capabilities:===
When a [[MiniTioune|MiniTiouner USB receiver]] is connected via USB:
* Reception and display of DVB-S and DVB-S2 (MPEG-2, H264 and H265) signals - see [[DVB-S/S2 Reception|https://wiki.batc.org.uk/DVB-S/S2_Reception]]

When a [[Knucker|BATC Knucker USB tuner]] is connected by USB:
* Reception and display of DVB-T and DVB-T2 (MPEG-2, H264 and H265) signals

When the Portsdown 4 is connected to the internet:
* Display of streams from the BATC Streamer

===Portsdown 4 test and alignment aids===

* Control of a Pluto, LimeSDR Mini, DATV Express, ADF4351, Elcom and SLO Microwave Sources using the [[Portsdown 4 Signal Generator]].

* Basic spectrum display of band occupancy using the "[[Portsdown Band Viewer]]" - '''note this requires a LimeSDR Mini to be connected'''.

==Hardware==

[[File:Portsdown 4 Block.PNG|600px]]

No other models of Raspberry Pi or touchscreen are planned to be supported in the near future.

===Portsdown 4 GPIO connections===

Due to a reassignment of the GPIO pins on Raspberry Pi4, the connections are different to previous generations of Portsdown.

The Portsdown 4 GPIO Connections are defined here: [[Portsdown 4 GPIO Connections]].

===Powering the Pluto===

The Raspberry Pi 4 has increased power capabilities on its USB ports, and the Pluto does not work well with USB Hubs, so it is recommended that you connect the Pluto directly to a USB3 port (the blue ones) on the Raspberry Pi 4. Do not use a USB hub or power the Pluto from its USB power port.

===Portsdown hardware===

Full details of the Portsdown hardware [[Portsdown hardware|are available here]].

==Software==

The Portsdown 4 software is available on a pre-programmed SD card which you can buy from the BATC shop https://batc.org.uk/shop/portsdown-transmitter-pre-programmed-sd-card/

If you wish to build your own card the build is on GitHub at https://github.com/BritishAmateurTelevisionClub/portsdown4

==Langstone Narrow band transceiver==

The Portsdown 4 software build is also compatible with the Langstone Microwave transceiver software, which can be loaded from touchscreen selections (menu 2) AFTER the Portsdown software has been installed.

See https://wiki.microwavers.org.uk/Langstone_Project for more details and the full spec of the Langstone.

Note: the Langstone software needs a '''Pluto SDR''' to be connected by USB, and a compatible USB Audio dongle.

==Pluto Capabilities==

The Portsdown 4 support for the Pluto SDR is still under development and there are some limitations on functionality as described here [[Portsdown 4 Pluto]].

==FAQ==

* Is it possible to rotate the PiCam image in software as it is on it's side?
No - you need to do the camera mounting modification which Colin G4KLB described in CQ-TV 267

* Can I upgrade from Langstone or a previous version incluing Portsdown A27?
No - you must start with a clean image on your SD card

* When I try to update I get the error "Unable to contact GitHub for update, Internet connection to Google seems OK". The solution is to log in by ssh and run the following commands:

cd /home/pi
wget https://raw.githubusercontent.com/BritishAmateurTelevisionClub/portsdown4/master/update.sh -O /home/pi/update.sh
chmod +x /home/pi/update.sh
./update.sh

* I have built my Portsdown 4 but the screen is upside down. How can I get it the right way up?

Menu 3, System Config, Invert 7 inch

==More information==

For more information and to ask any questions see https://forum.batc.org.uk/viewtopic.php?f=103&t=6804

Portsdown hardware

2021-10-19T14:11:58Z

M0DHP: /* 3.5" Touchscreen" */

This page describes all the hardware modules and interconnections required to build the Portsdown DATV system.

Not all the hardware is required before the transmitter can start to be tested – an incremental approach is described here to allow constructors to gain confidence as they assemble the parts.

===Raspberry Pi ===

The first item required is a standard Raspberry Pi - this can be a Pi 3 or Pi 4 depending upon the Portsdown version you are building. These are available from many suppliers and we suggest you just buy a Raspberry Pi without any additional boards or SD cards as you will be using specific Portsdown hardware and software. If you are starting a new build, the Raspberry Pi 4 Model B with 2 GB of RAM is recommended (4 GB or 8 GB or RAM will work, but costs more for no performance advantage).

===Power Supplies ===

You will also need a GOOD 3amp 5v power supply for the Raspberry Pi.

You should power a Pi 4 via the GPIO pins but always power a RPi 3 through the Micro-USB power connector to take advantage of the input protection provided. Use a very short USB cable to your power supply as most of these cables are of very poor quality and cause a significant voltage drop.

If you see a "Lightning Flash" symbol at the top right of your LCD display it means that the voltage at the RPi is too low. You can measure the voltage between the GPIO connector pins 4 and 6.

[[File:flash.jpg|200px]]

A lot of strange problems, such as the Portsdown running very slowly, can be caused by poor PSU volts - the RPi is actually specified for 5.1 volts, so make sure that your PSU delivers enough volts and current. See [https://forum.batc.org.uk/viewtopic.php?t=4856&p=11935#p11935 this post on the BATC forum] for a real user experience!

You may also need a 12 volt DC supply to power the other Portsdown components.

===Micro-SD Card===

You then need an SD card with the Portsdown software on it.

The easiest way is to buy a pre-programmed SD Card from the [https://batc.org.uk/shop/portsdown-transmitter-pre-programmed-sd-card/ BATC shop].

OR if you want to have a go at loading the software yourself you will need to or purchase a '''good quality card''' from another source and follow the instructions described [[Portsdown software|here]]. The 8 GB, 16 GB or 32 GB SanDisk Ultra (the red and grey one) is recommended - DO NOT use cheap copies.

===LCD Touchscreen===

The touchscreen is required to control the transmitter without the use of another computer.

'''Do not buy a touchscreen that connects through the RPi HDMI connector - it is NOT supported.'''

===7" Touchscreen===

The Portsdown 4 ONLY works with the Official Raspberry Pi 7" touchscreen (often referred to as a "7 inch Element 14 touchscreen"). The Portsdown 2020 works best with this screen, but can also use the 3.5 inch screen (below).

[[File:7_inch_screen.jpg|400px]]

Note that if you use the 7-inch screen, you do not need to connect the 3 data leads between the screen and the RPi - only ground and +5v.

===3.5" Touchscreen"===

'''Note this is NOT supported on the Portsdown 4.'''

The other supported touchscreen on Portsdown 2020 is a 3.5 inch diagonal Waveshare Raspberry Pi LCD (Model A, not Model B).

To mount the Waveshare screen away from the RPi, you could use this extension cable: https://thepihut.com/products/adafruit-gpio-extender-cable-for-raspberry-pi-model-a-b-26pin-12-long Just make sure that you triple-check the connections and pin orientation before connecting the screen. They do not tolerate incorrect connection as several of us have found out! Alternatively, you can make one yourself from a discarded 3.5 inch floppy drive and its lead.

Further information on screens can be found here [[Portsdown Displays]] and information on display resolutions can be found here [[Display Resolutions|PAL/NTSC and Display Resolutions]].

Mounting the Waveshare LCD Touchscreen can be a challenge! This 3D print design mounts it flat to the panel: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1941701
This 3D print design mounts it at an angle: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1920486.

Note that, when mounted, none of the touchscreen sensitive areas should be in contact with the surround.

===GPIO Extender Card===

In the completed unit, there are a number of signals that need to be routed in or out of the GPIO interface on the RPi. Plus we need to break out all 40 pins of the GPIO, and have another connector on top for the Waveshare LCD display (if used). Because of this the Portsdown team have designed a PCB for the job - the blank PCB for this is available from the BATC shop.

Buying an extender card early in the project reduces the chance of damage to the RPi and allows these connections to be made safely.

[[File:screw t.jpg|400px]]

The BATC card is very simple to construct with no components other than plugs and sockets.

For full construction details and a list of suppliers for the plugs and sockets see [[GPIO breakout|the GPIO breakout page]]

You can buy the GPIO Extender Card blank PCB from the [https://batc.org.uk/shop/portsdown-transmitter-gpio-breakout-board-blank-pcb/ Portsdown section in the BATC shop - item 3]

===LimeSDR Mini===

The Portsdown system can use the LimeSDR Mini (or LimeSDR USB) to provide the modulator and RF generator functions.

[[File:LimeMini.jpg|400px]]

[[Using LimeSDR with Portsdown|See this page]] for more details on using the LimeSDR Mini in a Portsdown system.

===Pluto SDR===

The Portsdown 4 uses the Pluto SDR connected via the USB port to provide the modulator and RF generator functions.

See this page for more details: [[Portsdown_4_Pluto]]

----------------------

'''You now have the components for a fully working Portsdown transmitter!

---------------------

'''''However, you will need a camera and audio input to transmit pictures and sound.'''''

===Raspberry Pi Camera===

If you want to transmit live pictures you will need a camera. The standard Pi camera gives excellent results but will need mounting in a housing and does not have audio input.

Raspberry Pi Camera: CPC Farnell http://cpc.farnell.com/raspberry-pi/rpi-8mp-camera-board/raspberry-pi-camera-board-8mp/dp/SC14028

===Optional RPi camera Extension Lead Kit===

The RPi camera gives excellent results, but only comes with a short ribbon cable to connect it to the RPi.

It is possible to use some higher quality HDMI leads (the ground connections all need to be made) to extend the camera lead - this does NOT mean the signal out of the camera is HDMI, it is actually "Camera Serial Interface Type 2 (CSI-2)". We are just using HDMI cable as a useful extension lead.

Kits are available to connect a female HDMI connector to the RPi camera connector, and another female to the camera, allowing the use of domestic 1, 2 and 3m HDMI leads.

RPi Camera HDMI Lead Extension Kit: https://www.tindie.com/products/freto/pi-camera-hdmi-cable-extension/

There are 2 modifications that can be made to enable lower quality HDMI leads (those without all the ground connections made, or even the CEC wire on pin 13 missing) to be used. Full details of these modifications [[CSI-2 to HDMI|are available here.]]

===WebCams===

Some WebCams work with the Portsdown, but it has proved very difficult to support more than a few specific models. The Portsdown 2020 works with the older (pre-2019) versions of the Logitech C920. The Portsdown 4 works with all (3) versions of the C920 and with the Logitech C170. More details on webcams here [[Portsdown Webcams]].

===Composite Video Capture Device===

The transmitter is also capable of working with a USB-connected “EasyCap” dongle to capture PAL composite video from camcorders and analogue mixers etc.

There are at least 4 similar devices being marketed under this name on eBay, each with different chipsets, but only the Fushicai "USBTV007" brand is guaranteed to work.

[[File:Fushicai.JPG|200px]]

===Audio Capture Device===

eBay provides a good source for very cheap audio capture USB dongles, which can provide an audio input to go with the RPi camera.

Audio Capture Device: Source from eBay - for example: http://www.ebay.co.uk/sch/Laptop-Desktop-Accessories/31530/i.html?_from=R40&_nkw=usb%20audio%20adapter&_dcat=75518&Channels=2%252E0&rt=nc&_trksid=p2045573.m1684

The software version 201707220 introduced audio source switching between audio and video capture devices. A list of devices that are supported by this audio switching is [[Audio Device List|here]].

-----------------------------
'''That completes the basic Portsdown transmitter shopping list'''

---------------------
'''''However, the team has designed some additional components to enable you to build a complete DATV transmit system'''''

===RF Switching===

The complete RF switching arrangement illustrated below allows you to select the output from the Lime SDR or Pluto, adjust the exact level and then route the RF to any one of 8 PAs or transverters. All the blocks in the diagram are optional; however, you can build a very comprehensive system if you want to. Note that the 4-way decode and switch boards can be substituted for the 8-way decode and switch boards.

[[File:20190511 Portsdown RF Switching.jpg|600px]]

===4-Band RF Output Switch===

The Portsdown team have developed a 4-Band RF output switch capable of switching the low level output of the Lime Mini / Pluto to separate amplifiers for the 70, 144, 437 and 1255 MHz bands. Note: due to potential high insertion loss, it is not recommended to use the switch above 23cms.

[[File:Pd out SW.jpg|300px]]

Full details including parts list and schematic are available [[RF output switch|on this wiki page]].

===4-Band Decode Switch===

The Portsdown provides band switching and PTT outputs on the GPIO pins - these outputs need to be decoded to provide an output for each band.

[[File:Band decoder.JPG|200px]]

The Portsdown team have designed a simple board for switching between 4 bands and buffering the PTT signal which can be either constructed on 0.1” perforated board (veroboard) or on a PCB - this can be home etched.
Full details on the board including circuit etc [[PTT and band switching|are available here.]]
Blank PCBs are available in the [https://batc.org.uk/shop/portsdown-transmitter-4-band-decode-blank-pcb/ BATC shop - item 5].

===8-Band RF Output Switch===

For those of you who also want to drive Microwave transverters from your Portsdown, the team have developed an 8-Band RF output switch that includes an RF amplifier. It is designed to be used with the Output Attenuator (see below). It will be capable of amplifying the variable level from the attenuator and switching it to separate amplifiers for the 70, 144, 437 and 1255 MHz bands, and to 4 transverters for the higher bands. PCBs are on order and will be available from the BATC Shop.

Full details including parts list and schematic are available [[8-Band RF Output Switch|on this wiki page]].
Blank PCBs are available in the [https://batc.org.uk/shop/portsdown-8-way-rf-output-switch-blank-pcb/ BATC shop - item 9].

===8-Band Decoder===

This 8-band decoder is designed to work with the 8-band RF output switch and the Portsdown software. It will provide switching signals (either always on, or PTT activated) to 4 Power Amplifiers and 4 transverters, and it also enables you to set which VCO filter should be switched in for the 4 transverter outputs. PCBs are on order and will be available from the BATC Shop.

Full details on the board including circuit etc [[8-Band Decoder|are available here.]]
Blank PCBs are available in the [https://batc.org.uk/shop/portsdown-8-band-decode-blank-pcb/ BATC shop - item 7].

===8-Band Decode PIC===

This is the pre=programmed PIC to control the custom designed 8 band decode board for the Portsdown transmitter.

Blank PCBs are available in the [https://batc.org.uk/shop/portsdown-8-band-decode-pic/ BATC shop - item 8].

===2-Way RF Switch===

Not required for Portsdown 4.

This switch allows you to route the outputs from the Portsdown 2017 Filter Modulator card and a LimeSDR to a single PA, enabling both to be used without reconfiguration. Full details on this Wiki page [[2-Way RF Switch]].

===Filters and PA drivers===

It is absolutely essential that the Portsdown transmitter output is followed by suitable bandpass filters.
These are not included as part of the project but a [[Filters|number of designs and suppliers are listed here.]]

===Output Attenuator===

Although NOT required when using the Lime Mini or Pluto SDR, the Portsdown can use an electronically switched attenuator to adjust the transmit drive level for each band. Attenuators based on the PE4302, HMC1119 or PE43703 (preferred) are supported.

[[File:PE43073 post-mod small.jpg|400px]]

These attenuators are available on eBay. Full details and wiring instructions are detailed here: [[Output Attenuator]].

Portsdown hardware

2021-10-19T14:11:23Z

M0DHP: /* 3.5" touchscreen" */

This page describes all the hardware modules and interconnections required to build the Portsdown DATV system.

Not all the hardware is required before the transmitter can start to be tested – an incremental approach is described here to allow constructors to gain confidence as they assemble the parts.

===Raspberry Pi ===

The first item required is a standard Raspberry Pi - this can be a Pi 3 or Pi 4 depending upon the Portsdown version you are building. These are available from many suppliers and we suggest you just buy a Raspberry Pi without any additional boards or SD cards as you will be using specific Portsdown hardware and software. If you are starting a new build, the Raspberry Pi 4 Model B with 2 GB of RAM is recommended (4 GB or 8 GB or RAM will work, but costs more for no performance advantage).

===Power Supplies ===

You will also need a GOOD 3amp 5v power supply for the Raspberry Pi.

You should power a Pi 4 via the GPIO pins but always power a RPi 3 through the Micro-USB power connector to take advantage of the input protection provided. Use a very short USB cable to your power supply as most of these cables are of very poor quality and cause a significant voltage drop.

If you see a "Lightning Flash" symbol at the top right of your LCD display it means that the voltage at the RPi is too low. You can measure the voltage between the GPIO connector pins 4 and 6.

[[File:flash.jpg|200px]]

A lot of strange problems, such as the Portsdown running very slowly, can be caused by poor PSU volts - the RPi is actually specified for 5.1 volts, so make sure that your PSU delivers enough volts and current. See [https://forum.batc.org.uk/viewtopic.php?t=4856&p=11935#p11935 this post on the BATC forum] for a real user experience!

You may also need a 12 volt DC supply to power the other Portsdown components.

===Micro-SD Card===

You then need an SD card with the Portsdown software on it.

The easiest way is to buy a pre-programmed SD Card from the [https://batc.org.uk/shop/portsdown-transmitter-pre-programmed-sd-card/ BATC shop].

OR if you want to have a go at loading the software yourself you will need to or purchase a '''good quality card''' from another source and follow the instructions described [[Portsdown software|here]]. The 8 GB, 16 GB or 32 GB SanDisk Ultra (the red and grey one) is recommended - DO NOT use cheap copies.

===LCD Touchscreen===

The touchscreen is required to control the transmitter without the use of another computer.

'''Do not buy a touchscreen that connects through the RPi HDMI connector - it is NOT supported.'''

===7" Touchscreen===

The Portsdown 4 ONLY works with the Official Raspberry Pi 7" touchscreen (often referred to as a "7 inch Element 14 touchscreen"). The Portsdown 2020 works best with this screen, but can also use the 3.5 inch screen (below).

[[File:7_inch_screen.jpg|400px]]

Note that if you use the 7-inch screen, you do not need to connect the 3 data leads between the screen and the RPi - only ground and +5v.

===3.5" Touchscreen"===

'''Note this is NOT supported on the Portsdown 4.''' The other supported touchscreen on Portsdown 2019 is a 3.5 inch diagonal Waveshare Raspberry Pi LCD (Model A, not Model B).

To mount the Waveshare screen away from the RPi, you could use this extension cable: https://thepihut.com/products/adafruit-gpio-extender-cable-for-raspberry-pi-model-a-b-26pin-12-long Just make sure that you triple-check the connections and pin orientation before connecting the screen. They do not tolerate incorrect connection as several of us have found out! Alternatively, you can make one yourself from a discarded 3.5 inch floppy drive and its lead.

Further information on screens can be found here [[Portsdown Displays]] and information on display resolutions can be found here [[Display Resolutions|PAL/NTSC and Display Resolutions]].

Mounting the Waveshare LCD Touchscreen can be a challenge! This 3D print design mounts it flat to the panel: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1941701
This 3D print design mounts it at an angle: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1920486.

Note that, when mounted, none of the touchscreen sensitive areas should be in contact with the surround.

===GPIO Extender Card===

In the completed unit, there are a number of signals that need to be routed in or out of the GPIO interface on the RPi. Plus we need to break out all 40 pins of the GPIO, and have another connector on top for the Waveshare LCD display (if used). Because of this the Portsdown team have designed a PCB for the job - the blank PCB for this is available from the BATC shop.

Buying an extender card early in the project reduces the chance of damage to the RPi and allows these connections to be made safely.

[[File:screw t.jpg|400px]]

The BATC card is very simple to construct with no components other than plugs and sockets.

For full construction details and a list of suppliers for the plugs and sockets see [[GPIO breakout|the GPIO breakout page]]

You can buy the GPIO Extender Card blank PCB from the [https://batc.org.uk/shop/portsdown-transmitter-gpio-breakout-board-blank-pcb/ Portsdown section in the BATC shop - item 3]

===LimeSDR Mini===

The Portsdown system can use the LimeSDR Mini (or LimeSDR USB) to provide the modulator and RF generator functions.

[[File:LimeMini.jpg|400px]]

[[Using LimeSDR with Portsdown|See this page]] for more details on using the LimeSDR Mini in a Portsdown system.

===Pluto SDR===

The Portsdown 4 uses the Pluto SDR connected via the USB port to provide the modulator and RF generator functions.

See this page for more details: [[Portsdown_4_Pluto]]

----------------------

'''You now have the components for a fully working Portsdown transmitter!

---------------------

'''''However, you will need a camera and audio input to transmit pictures and sound.'''''

===Raspberry Pi Camera===

If you want to transmit live pictures you will need a camera. The standard Pi camera gives excellent results but will need mounting in a housing and does not have audio input.

Raspberry Pi Camera: CPC Farnell http://cpc.farnell.com/raspberry-pi/rpi-8mp-camera-board/raspberry-pi-camera-board-8mp/dp/SC14028

===Optional RPi camera Extension Lead Kit===

The RPi camera gives excellent results, but only comes with a short ribbon cable to connect it to the RPi.

It is possible to use some higher quality HDMI leads (the ground connections all need to be made) to extend the camera lead - this does NOT mean the signal out of the camera is HDMI, it is actually "Camera Serial Interface Type 2 (CSI-2)". We are just using HDMI cable as a useful extension lead.

Kits are available to connect a female HDMI connector to the RPi camera connector, and another female to the camera, allowing the use of domestic 1, 2 and 3m HDMI leads.

RPi Camera HDMI Lead Extension Kit: https://www.tindie.com/products/freto/pi-camera-hdmi-cable-extension/

There are 2 modifications that can be made to enable lower quality HDMI leads (those without all the ground connections made, or even the CEC wire on pin 13 missing) to be used. Full details of these modifications [[CSI-2 to HDMI|are available here.]]

===WebCams===

Some WebCams work with the Portsdown, but it has proved very difficult to support more than a few specific models. The Portsdown 2020 works with the older (pre-2019) versions of the Logitech C920. The Portsdown 4 works with all (3) versions of the C920 and with the Logitech C170. More details on webcams here [[Portsdown Webcams]].

===Composite Video Capture Device===

The transmitter is also capable of working with a USB-connected “EasyCap” dongle to capture PAL composite video from camcorders and analogue mixers etc.

There are at least 4 similar devices being marketed under this name on eBay, each with different chipsets, but only the Fushicai "USBTV007" brand is guaranteed to work.

[[File:Fushicai.JPG|200px]]

===Audio Capture Device===

eBay provides a good source for very cheap audio capture USB dongles, which can provide an audio input to go with the RPi camera.

Audio Capture Device: Source from eBay - for example: http://www.ebay.co.uk/sch/Laptop-Desktop-Accessories/31530/i.html?_from=R40&_nkw=usb%20audio%20adapter&_dcat=75518&Channels=2%252E0&rt=nc&_trksid=p2045573.m1684

The software version 201707220 introduced audio source switching between audio and video capture devices. A list of devices that are supported by this audio switching is [[Audio Device List|here]].

-----------------------------
'''That completes the basic Portsdown transmitter shopping list'''

---------------------
'''''However, the team has designed some additional components to enable you to build a complete DATV transmit system'''''

===RF Switching===

The complete RF switching arrangement illustrated below allows you to select the output from the Lime SDR or Pluto, adjust the exact level and then route the RF to any one of 8 PAs or transverters. All the blocks in the diagram are optional; however, you can build a very comprehensive system if you want to. Note that the 4-way decode and switch boards can be substituted for the 8-way decode and switch boards.

[[File:20190511 Portsdown RF Switching.jpg|600px]]

===4-Band RF Output Switch===

The Portsdown team have developed a 4-Band RF output switch capable of switching the low level output of the Lime Mini / Pluto to separate amplifiers for the 70, 144, 437 and 1255 MHz bands. Note: due to potential high insertion loss, it is not recommended to use the switch above 23cms.

[[File:Pd out SW.jpg|300px]]

Full details including parts list and schematic are available [[RF output switch|on this wiki page]].

===4-Band Decode Switch===

The Portsdown provides band switching and PTT outputs on the GPIO pins - these outputs need to be decoded to provide an output for each band.

[[File:Band decoder.JPG|200px]]

The Portsdown team have designed a simple board for switching between 4 bands and buffering the PTT signal which can be either constructed on 0.1” perforated board (veroboard) or on a PCB - this can be home etched.
Full details on the board including circuit etc [[PTT and band switching|are available here.]]
Blank PCBs are available in the [https://batc.org.uk/shop/portsdown-transmitter-4-band-decode-blank-pcb/ BATC shop - item 5].

===8-Band RF Output Switch===

For those of you who also want to drive Microwave transverters from your Portsdown, the team have developed an 8-Band RF output switch that includes an RF amplifier. It is designed to be used with the Output Attenuator (see below). It will be capable of amplifying the variable level from the attenuator and switching it to separate amplifiers for the 70, 144, 437 and 1255 MHz bands, and to 4 transverters for the higher bands. PCBs are on order and will be available from the BATC Shop.

Full details including parts list and schematic are available [[8-Band RF Output Switch|on this wiki page]].
Blank PCBs are available in the [https://batc.org.uk/shop/portsdown-8-way-rf-output-switch-blank-pcb/ BATC shop - item 9].

===8-Band Decoder===

This 8-band decoder is designed to work with the 8-band RF output switch and the Portsdown software. It will provide switching signals (either always on, or PTT activated) to 4 Power Amplifiers and 4 transverters, and it also enables you to set which VCO filter should be switched in for the 4 transverter outputs. PCBs are on order and will be available from the BATC Shop.

Full details on the board including circuit etc [[8-Band Decoder|are available here.]]
Blank PCBs are available in the [https://batc.org.uk/shop/portsdown-8-band-decode-blank-pcb/ BATC shop - item 7].

===8-Band Decode PIC===

This is the pre=programmed PIC to control the custom designed 8 band decode board for the Portsdown transmitter.

Blank PCBs are available in the [https://batc.org.uk/shop/portsdown-8-band-decode-pic/ BATC shop - item 8].

===2-Way RF Switch===

Not required for Portsdown 4.

This switch allows you to route the outputs from the Portsdown 2017 Filter Modulator card and a LimeSDR to a single PA, enabling both to be used without reconfiguration. Full details on this Wiki page [[2-Way RF Switch]].

===Filters and PA drivers===

It is absolutely essential that the Portsdown transmitter output is followed by suitable bandpass filters.
These are not included as part of the project but a [[Filters|number of designs and suppliers are listed here.]]

===Output Attenuator===

Although NOT required when using the Lime Mini or Pluto SDR, the Portsdown can use an electronically switched attenuator to adjust the transmit drive level for each band. Attenuators based on the PE4302, HMC1119 or PE43703 (preferred) are supported.

[[File:PE43073 post-mod small.jpg|400px]]

These attenuators are available on eBay. Full details and wiring instructions are detailed here: [[Output Attenuator]].

Portsdown hardware

2021-10-19T14:11:03Z

M0DHP: /* 7" Touchscreen" */

This page describes all the hardware modules and interconnections required to build the Portsdown DATV system.

Not all the hardware is required before the transmitter can start to be tested – an incremental approach is described here to allow constructors to gain confidence as they assemble the parts.

===Raspberry Pi ===

The first item required is a standard Raspberry Pi - this can be a Pi 3 or Pi 4 depending upon the Portsdown version you are building. These are available from many suppliers and we suggest you just buy a Raspberry Pi without any additional boards or SD cards as you will be using specific Portsdown hardware and software. If you are starting a new build, the Raspberry Pi 4 Model B with 2 GB of RAM is recommended (4 GB or 8 GB or RAM will work, but costs more for no performance advantage).

===Power Supplies ===

You will also need a GOOD 3amp 5v power supply for the Raspberry Pi.

You should power a Pi 4 via the GPIO pins but always power a RPi 3 through the Micro-USB power connector to take advantage of the input protection provided. Use a very short USB cable to your power supply as most of these cables are of very poor quality and cause a significant voltage drop.

If you see a "Lightning Flash" symbol at the top right of your LCD display it means that the voltage at the RPi is too low. You can measure the voltage between the GPIO connector pins 4 and 6.

[[File:flash.jpg|200px]]

A lot of strange problems, such as the Portsdown running very slowly, can be caused by poor PSU volts - the RPi is actually specified for 5.1 volts, so make sure that your PSU delivers enough volts and current. See [https://forum.batc.org.uk/viewtopic.php?t=4856&p=11935#p11935 this post on the BATC forum] for a real user experience!

You may also need a 12 volt DC supply to power the other Portsdown components.

===Micro-SD Card===

You then need an SD card with the Portsdown software on it.

The easiest way is to buy a pre-programmed SD Card from the [https://batc.org.uk/shop/portsdown-transmitter-pre-programmed-sd-card/ BATC shop].

OR if you want to have a go at loading the software yourself you will need to or purchase a '''good quality card''' from another source and follow the instructions described [[Portsdown software|here]]. The 8 GB, 16 GB or 32 GB SanDisk Ultra (the red and grey one) is recommended - DO NOT use cheap copies.

===LCD Touchscreen===

The touchscreen is required to control the transmitter without the use of another computer.

'''Do not buy a touchscreen that connects through the RPi HDMI connector - it is NOT supported.'''

===7" Touchscreen===

The Portsdown 4 ONLY works with the Official Raspberry Pi 7" touchscreen (often referred to as a "7 inch Element 14 touchscreen"). The Portsdown 2020 works best with this screen, but can also use the 3.5 inch screen (below).

[[File:7_inch_screen.jpg|400px]]

Note that if you use the 7-inch screen, you do not need to connect the 3 data leads between the screen and the RPi - only ground and +5v.

===3.5" touchscreen"===

'''Note this is NOT supported on the Portsdown 4.''' The other supported touchscreen on Portsdown 2019 is a 3.5 inch diagonal Waveshare Raspberry Pi LCD (Model A, not Model B).

To mount the Waveshare screen away from the RPi, you could use this extension cable: https://thepihut.com/products/adafruit-gpio-extender-cable-for-raspberry-pi-model-a-b-26pin-12-long Just make sure that you triple-check the connections and pin orientation before connecting the screen. They do not tolerate incorrect connection as several of us have found out! Alternatively, you can make one yourself from a discarded 3.5 inch floppy drive and its lead.

Further information on screens can be found here [[Portsdown Displays]] and information on display resolutions can be found here [[Display Resolutions|PAL/NTSC and Display Resolutions]].

Mounting the Waveshare LCD Touchscreen can be a challenge! This 3D print design mounts it flat to the panel: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1941701
This 3D print design mounts it at an angle: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1920486.

Note that, when mounted, none of the touchscreen sensitive areas should be in contact with the surround.

===GPIO Extender Card===

In the completed unit, there are a number of signals that need to be routed in or out of the GPIO interface on the RPi. Plus we need to break out all 40 pins of the GPIO, and have another connector on top for the Waveshare LCD display (if used). Because of this the Portsdown team have designed a PCB for the job - the blank PCB for this is available from the BATC shop.

Buying an extender card early in the project reduces the chance of damage to the RPi and allows these connections to be made safely.

[[File:screw t.jpg|400px]]

The BATC card is very simple to construct with no components other than plugs and sockets.

For full construction details and a list of suppliers for the plugs and sockets see [[GPIO breakout|the GPIO breakout page]]

You can buy the GPIO Extender Card blank PCB from the [https://batc.org.uk/shop/portsdown-transmitter-gpio-breakout-board-blank-pcb/ Portsdown section in the BATC shop - item 3]

===LimeSDR Mini===

The Portsdown system can use the LimeSDR Mini (or LimeSDR USB) to provide the modulator and RF generator functions.

[[File:LimeMini.jpg|400px]]

[[Using LimeSDR with Portsdown|See this page]] for more details on using the LimeSDR Mini in a Portsdown system.

===Pluto SDR===

The Portsdown 4 uses the Pluto SDR connected via the USB port to provide the modulator and RF generator functions.

See this page for more details: [[Portsdown_4_Pluto]]

----------------------

'''You now have the components for a fully working Portsdown transmitter!

---------------------

'''''However, you will need a camera and audio input to transmit pictures and sound.'''''

===Raspberry Pi Camera===

If you want to transmit live pictures you will need a camera. The standard Pi camera gives excellent results but will need mounting in a housing and does not have audio input.

Raspberry Pi Camera: CPC Farnell http://cpc.farnell.com/raspberry-pi/rpi-8mp-camera-board/raspberry-pi-camera-board-8mp/dp/SC14028

===Optional RPi camera Extension Lead Kit===

The RPi camera gives excellent results, but only comes with a short ribbon cable to connect it to the RPi.

It is possible to use some higher quality HDMI leads (the ground connections all need to be made) to extend the camera lead - this does NOT mean the signal out of the camera is HDMI, it is actually "Camera Serial Interface Type 2 (CSI-2)". We are just using HDMI cable as a useful extension lead.

Kits are available to connect a female HDMI connector to the RPi camera connector, and another female to the camera, allowing the use of domestic 1, 2 and 3m HDMI leads.

RPi Camera HDMI Lead Extension Kit: https://www.tindie.com/products/freto/pi-camera-hdmi-cable-extension/

There are 2 modifications that can be made to enable lower quality HDMI leads (those without all the ground connections made, or even the CEC wire on pin 13 missing) to be used. Full details of these modifications [[CSI-2 to HDMI|are available here.]]

===WebCams===

Some WebCams work with the Portsdown, but it has proved very difficult to support more than a few specific models. The Portsdown 2020 works with the older (pre-2019) versions of the Logitech C920. The Portsdown 4 works with all (3) versions of the C920 and with the Logitech C170. More details on webcams here [[Portsdown Webcams]].

===Composite Video Capture Device===

The transmitter is also capable of working with a USB-connected “EasyCap” dongle to capture PAL composite video from camcorders and analogue mixers etc.

There are at least 4 similar devices being marketed under this name on eBay, each with different chipsets, but only the Fushicai "USBTV007" brand is guaranteed to work.

[[File:Fushicai.JPG|200px]]

===Audio Capture Device===

eBay provides a good source for very cheap audio capture USB dongles, which can provide an audio input to go with the RPi camera.

Audio Capture Device: Source from eBay - for example: http://www.ebay.co.uk/sch/Laptop-Desktop-Accessories/31530/i.html?_from=R40&_nkw=usb%20audio%20adapter&_dcat=75518&Channels=2%252E0&rt=nc&_trksid=p2045573.m1684

The software version 201707220 introduced audio source switching between audio and video capture devices. A list of devices that are supported by this audio switching is [[Audio Device List|here]].

-----------------------------
'''That completes the basic Portsdown transmitter shopping list'''

---------------------
'''''However, the team has designed some additional components to enable you to build a complete DATV transmit system'''''

===RF Switching===

The complete RF switching arrangement illustrated below allows you to select the output from the Lime SDR or Pluto, adjust the exact level and then route the RF to any one of 8 PAs or transverters. All the blocks in the diagram are optional; however, you can build a very comprehensive system if you want to. Note that the 4-way decode and switch boards can be substituted for the 8-way decode and switch boards.

[[File:20190511 Portsdown RF Switching.jpg|600px]]

===4-Band RF Output Switch===

The Portsdown team have developed a 4-Band RF output switch capable of switching the low level output of the Lime Mini / Pluto to separate amplifiers for the 70, 144, 437 and 1255 MHz bands. Note: due to potential high insertion loss, it is not recommended to use the switch above 23cms.

[[File:Pd out SW.jpg|300px]]

Full details including parts list and schematic are available [[RF output switch|on this wiki page]].

===4-Band Decode Switch===

The Portsdown provides band switching and PTT outputs on the GPIO pins - these outputs need to be decoded to provide an output for each band.

[[File:Band decoder.JPG|200px]]

The Portsdown team have designed a simple board for switching between 4 bands and buffering the PTT signal which can be either constructed on 0.1” perforated board (veroboard) or on a PCB - this can be home etched.
Full details on the board including circuit etc [[PTT and band switching|are available here.]]
Blank PCBs are available in the [https://batc.org.uk/shop/portsdown-transmitter-4-band-decode-blank-pcb/ BATC shop - item 5].

===8-Band RF Output Switch===

For those of you who also want to drive Microwave transverters from your Portsdown, the team have developed an 8-Band RF output switch that includes an RF amplifier. It is designed to be used with the Output Attenuator (see below). It will be capable of amplifying the variable level from the attenuator and switching it to separate amplifiers for the 70, 144, 437 and 1255 MHz bands, and to 4 transverters for the higher bands. PCBs are on order and will be available from the BATC Shop.

Full details including parts list and schematic are available [[8-Band RF Output Switch|on this wiki page]].
Blank PCBs are available in the [https://batc.org.uk/shop/portsdown-8-way-rf-output-switch-blank-pcb/ BATC shop - item 9].

===8-Band Decoder===

This 8-band decoder is designed to work with the 8-band RF output switch and the Portsdown software. It will provide switching signals (either always on, or PTT activated) to 4 Power Amplifiers and 4 transverters, and it also enables you to set which VCO filter should be switched in for the 4 transverter outputs. PCBs are on order and will be available from the BATC Shop.

Full details on the board including circuit etc [[8-Band Decoder|are available here.]]
Blank PCBs are available in the [https://batc.org.uk/shop/portsdown-8-band-decode-blank-pcb/ BATC shop - item 7].

===8-Band Decode PIC===

This is the pre=programmed PIC to control the custom designed 8 band decode board for the Portsdown transmitter.

Blank PCBs are available in the [https://batc.org.uk/shop/portsdown-8-band-decode-pic/ BATC shop - item 8].

===2-Way RF Switch===

Not required for Portsdown 4.

This switch allows you to route the outputs from the Portsdown 2017 Filter Modulator card and a LimeSDR to a single PA, enabling both to be used without reconfiguration. Full details on this Wiki page [[2-Way RF Switch]].

===Filters and PA drivers===

It is absolutely essential that the Portsdown transmitter output is followed by suitable bandpass filters.
These are not included as part of the project but a [[Filters|number of designs and suppliers are listed here.]]

===Output Attenuator===

Although NOT required when using the Lime Mini or Pluto SDR, the Portsdown can use an electronically switched attenuator to adjust the transmit drive level for each band. Attenuators based on the PE4302, HMC1119 or PE43703 (preferred) are supported.

[[File:PE43073 post-mod small.jpg|400px]]

These attenuators are available on eBay. Full details and wiring instructions are detailed here: [[Output Attenuator]].

Portsdown hardware

2021-10-19T14:10:26Z

M0DHP: /* LCD TouchScreen */

This page describes all the hardware modules and interconnections required to build the Portsdown DATV system.

Not all the hardware is required before the transmitter can start to be tested – an incremental approach is described here to allow constructors to gain confidence as they assemble the parts.

===Raspberry Pi ===

The first item required is a standard Raspberry Pi - this can be a Pi 3 or Pi 4 depending upon the Portsdown version you are building. These are available from many suppliers and we suggest you just buy a Raspberry Pi without any additional boards or SD cards as you will be using specific Portsdown hardware and software. If you are starting a new build, the Raspberry Pi 4 Model B with 2 GB of RAM is recommended (4 GB or 8 GB or RAM will work, but costs more for no performance advantage).

===Power Supplies ===

You will also need a GOOD 3amp 5v power supply for the Raspberry Pi.

You should power a Pi 4 via the GPIO pins but always power a RPi 3 through the Micro-USB power connector to take advantage of the input protection provided. Use a very short USB cable to your power supply as most of these cables are of very poor quality and cause a significant voltage drop.

If you see a "Lightning Flash" symbol at the top right of your LCD display it means that the voltage at the RPi is too low. You can measure the voltage between the GPIO connector pins 4 and 6.

[[File:flash.jpg|200px]]

A lot of strange problems, such as the Portsdown running very slowly, can be caused by poor PSU volts - the RPi is actually specified for 5.1 volts, so make sure that your PSU delivers enough volts and current. See [https://forum.batc.org.uk/viewtopic.php?t=4856&p=11935#p11935 this post on the BATC forum] for a real user experience!

You may also need a 12 volt DC supply to power the other Portsdown components.

===Micro-SD Card===

You then need an SD card with the Portsdown software on it.

The easiest way is to buy a pre-programmed SD Card from the [https://batc.org.uk/shop/portsdown-transmitter-pre-programmed-sd-card/ BATC shop].

OR if you want to have a go at loading the software yourself you will need to or purchase a '''good quality card''' from another source and follow the instructions described [[Portsdown software|here]]. The 8 GB, 16 GB or 32 GB SanDisk Ultra (the red and grey one) is recommended - DO NOT use cheap copies.

===LCD Touchscreen===

The touchscreen is required to control the transmitter without the use of another computer.

'''Do not buy a touchscreen that connects through the RPi HDMI connector - it is NOT supported.'''

===7" Touchscreen"===

The Portsdown 4 ONLY works with the Official Raspberry Pi 7" touchscreen (often referred to as a "7 inch Element 14 touchscreen"). The Portsdown 2020 works best with this screen, but can also use the 3.5 inch screen (below).

[[File:7_inch_screen.jpg|400px]]

Note that if you use the 7-inch screen, you do not need to connect the 3 data leads between the screen and the RPi - only ground and +5v.

===3.5" touchscreen"===

'''Note this is NOT supported on the Portsdown 4.''' The other supported touchscreen on Portsdown 2019 is a 3.5 inch diagonal Waveshare Raspberry Pi LCD (Model A, not Model B).

To mount the Waveshare screen away from the RPi, you could use this extension cable: https://thepihut.com/products/adafruit-gpio-extender-cable-for-raspberry-pi-model-a-b-26pin-12-long Just make sure that you triple-check the connections and pin orientation before connecting the screen. They do not tolerate incorrect connection as several of us have found out! Alternatively, you can make one yourself from a discarded 3.5 inch floppy drive and its lead.

Further information on screens can be found here [[Portsdown Displays]] and information on display resolutions can be found here [[Display Resolutions|PAL/NTSC and Display Resolutions]].

Mounting the Waveshare LCD Touchscreen can be a challenge! This 3D print design mounts it flat to the panel: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1941701
This 3D print design mounts it at an angle: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1920486.

Note that, when mounted, none of the touchscreen sensitive areas should be in contact with the surround.

===GPIO Extender Card===

In the completed unit, there are a number of signals that need to be routed in or out of the GPIO interface on the RPi. Plus we need to break out all 40 pins of the GPIO, and have another connector on top for the Waveshare LCD display (if used). Because of this the Portsdown team have designed a PCB for the job - the blank PCB for this is available from the BATC shop.

Buying an extender card early in the project reduces the chance of damage to the RPi and allows these connections to be made safely.

[[File:screw t.jpg|400px]]

The BATC card is very simple to construct with no components other than plugs and sockets.

For full construction details and a list of suppliers for the plugs and sockets see [[GPIO breakout|the GPIO breakout page]]

You can buy the GPIO Extender Card blank PCB from the [https://batc.org.uk/shop/portsdown-transmitter-gpio-breakout-board-blank-pcb/ Portsdown section in the BATC shop - item 3]

===LimeSDR Mini===

The Portsdown system can use the LimeSDR Mini (or LimeSDR USB) to provide the modulator and RF generator functions.

[[File:LimeMini.jpg|400px]]

[[Using LimeSDR with Portsdown|See this page]] for more details on using the LimeSDR Mini in a Portsdown system.

===Pluto SDR===

The Portsdown 4 uses the Pluto SDR connected via the USB port to provide the modulator and RF generator functions.

See this page for more details: [[Portsdown_4_Pluto]]

----------------------

'''You now have the components for a fully working Portsdown transmitter!

---------------------

'''''However, you will need a camera and audio input to transmit pictures and sound.'''''

===Raspberry Pi Camera===

If you want to transmit live pictures you will need a camera. The standard Pi camera gives excellent results but will need mounting in a housing and does not have audio input.

Raspberry Pi Camera: CPC Farnell http://cpc.farnell.com/raspberry-pi/rpi-8mp-camera-board/raspberry-pi-camera-board-8mp/dp/SC14028

===Optional RPi camera Extension Lead Kit===

The RPi camera gives excellent results, but only comes with a short ribbon cable to connect it to the RPi.

It is possible to use some higher quality HDMI leads (the ground connections all need to be made) to extend the camera lead - this does NOT mean the signal out of the camera is HDMI, it is actually "Camera Serial Interface Type 2 (CSI-2)". We are just using HDMI cable as a useful extension lead.

Kits are available to connect a female HDMI connector to the RPi camera connector, and another female to the camera, allowing the use of domestic 1, 2 and 3m HDMI leads.

RPi Camera HDMI Lead Extension Kit: https://www.tindie.com/products/freto/pi-camera-hdmi-cable-extension/

There are 2 modifications that can be made to enable lower quality HDMI leads (those without all the ground connections made, or even the CEC wire on pin 13 missing) to be used. Full details of these modifications [[CSI-2 to HDMI|are available here.]]

===WebCams===

Some WebCams work with the Portsdown, but it has proved very difficult to support more than a few specific models. The Portsdown 2020 works with the older (pre-2019) versions of the Logitech C920. The Portsdown 4 works with all (3) versions of the C920 and with the Logitech C170. More details on webcams here [[Portsdown Webcams]].

===Composite Video Capture Device===

The transmitter is also capable of working with a USB-connected “EasyCap” dongle to capture PAL composite video from camcorders and analogue mixers etc.

There are at least 4 similar devices being marketed under this name on eBay, each with different chipsets, but only the Fushicai "USBTV007" brand is guaranteed to work.

[[File:Fushicai.JPG|200px]]

===Audio Capture Device===

eBay provides a good source for very cheap audio capture USB dongles, which can provide an audio input to go with the RPi camera.

Audio Capture Device: Source from eBay - for example: http://www.ebay.co.uk/sch/Laptop-Desktop-Accessories/31530/i.html?_from=R40&_nkw=usb%20audio%20adapter&_dcat=75518&Channels=2%252E0&rt=nc&_trksid=p2045573.m1684

The software version 201707220 introduced audio source switching between audio and video capture devices. A list of devices that are supported by this audio switching is [[Audio Device List|here]].

-----------------------------
'''That completes the basic Portsdown transmitter shopping list'''

---------------------
'''''However, the team has designed some additional components to enable you to build a complete DATV transmit system'''''

===RF Switching===

The complete RF switching arrangement illustrated below allows you to select the output from the Lime SDR or Pluto, adjust the exact level and then route the RF to any one of 8 PAs or transverters. All the blocks in the diagram are optional; however, you can build a very comprehensive system if you want to. Note that the 4-way decode and switch boards can be substituted for the 8-way decode and switch boards.

[[File:20190511 Portsdown RF Switching.jpg|600px]]

===4-Band RF Output Switch===

The Portsdown team have developed a 4-Band RF output switch capable of switching the low level output of the Lime Mini / Pluto to separate amplifiers for the 70, 144, 437 and 1255 MHz bands. Note: due to potential high insertion loss, it is not recommended to use the switch above 23cms.

[[File:Pd out SW.jpg|300px]]

Full details including parts list and schematic are available [[RF output switch|on this wiki page]].

===4-Band Decode Switch===

The Portsdown provides band switching and PTT outputs on the GPIO pins - these outputs need to be decoded to provide an output for each band.

[[File:Band decoder.JPG|200px]]

The Portsdown team have designed a simple board for switching between 4 bands and buffering the PTT signal which can be either constructed on 0.1” perforated board (veroboard) or on a PCB - this can be home etched.
Full details on the board including circuit etc [[PTT and band switching|are available here.]]
Blank PCBs are available in the [https://batc.org.uk/shop/portsdown-transmitter-4-band-decode-blank-pcb/ BATC shop - item 5].

===8-Band RF Output Switch===

For those of you who also want to drive Microwave transverters from your Portsdown, the team have developed an 8-Band RF output switch that includes an RF amplifier. It is designed to be used with the Output Attenuator (see below). It will be capable of amplifying the variable level from the attenuator and switching it to separate amplifiers for the 70, 144, 437 and 1255 MHz bands, and to 4 transverters for the higher bands. PCBs are on order and will be available from the BATC Shop.

Full details including parts list and schematic are available [[8-Band RF Output Switch|on this wiki page]].
Blank PCBs are available in the [https://batc.org.uk/shop/portsdown-8-way-rf-output-switch-blank-pcb/ BATC shop - item 9].

===8-Band Decoder===

This 8-band decoder is designed to work with the 8-band RF output switch and the Portsdown software. It will provide switching signals (either always on, or PTT activated) to 4 Power Amplifiers and 4 transverters, and it also enables you to set which VCO filter should be switched in for the 4 transverter outputs. PCBs are on order and will be available from the BATC Shop.

Full details on the board including circuit etc [[8-Band Decoder|are available here.]]
Blank PCBs are available in the [https://batc.org.uk/shop/portsdown-8-band-decode-blank-pcb/ BATC shop - item 7].

===8-Band Decode PIC===

This is the pre=programmed PIC to control the custom designed 8 band decode board for the Portsdown transmitter.

Blank PCBs are available in the [https://batc.org.uk/shop/portsdown-8-band-decode-pic/ BATC shop - item 8].

===2-Way RF Switch===

Not required for Portsdown 4.

This switch allows you to route the outputs from the Portsdown 2017 Filter Modulator card and a LimeSDR to a single PA, enabling both to be used without reconfiguration. Full details on this Wiki page [[2-Way RF Switch]].

===Filters and PA drivers===

It is absolutely essential that the Portsdown transmitter output is followed by suitable bandpass filters.
These are not included as part of the project but a [[Filters|number of designs and suppliers are listed here.]]

===Output Attenuator===

Although NOT required when using the Lime Mini or Pluto SDR, the Portsdown can use an electronically switched attenuator to adjust the transmit drive level for each band. Attenuators based on the PE4302, HMC1119 or PE43703 (preferred) are supported.

[[File:PE43073 post-mod small.jpg|400px]]

These attenuators are available on eBay. Full details and wiring instructions are detailed here: [[Output Attenuator]].

Portsdown 4

2021-10-19T14:06:36Z

M0DHP: /* Portsdown test and alignment aids */

The Portsdown 4 transceiver software has been specifically designed to be used with the Raspberry Pi 4 and the official Raspberry Pi 7 inch touchscreen. It will drive a Pluto SDR or the LimeSDR.

Portsdown 4 is the simplest and easiest to construct, with a barebones system consisting of:

* Raspberry Pi4 2GB model
* 7" touch screen
* 8, 16 or 32 GB SD card
* Adalm Pluto '''or''' Lime SDRmini SDR hardware

This will give you a DVB-S2 and DVB-T DATV transmit system from 30 to 3500 MHz when using a Lime SDR and 50MHz to 4100 MHz with the Pluto.

With the addition of a MiniTiouner USB receiver [[https://wiki.batc.org.uk/MiniTioune]], you will have a full spec DVB-S/S2 DATV transceiver.

With the addition of the [[Knucker|Knucker USB tuner]] you will also have DVB-T receive capabilities.

==Building a Portsdown 4==

Dave G8GKQ published this step by step guide to building a Portsdown 4 in CQ-TV 271:

[[:media:Getting Started With Portsdown 4.pdf]]

==Capabilities==

===Portsdown 4 transmit capabilities:===
* DVB-S, DVB-S2 and DVB-T (H264 only) transmissions from a Pluto SDR connected by USB
* DVB-S, DVB-S2 and DVB-T (MPEG-2 and H264) transmissions from a LimeSDR Mini or LimeSDR USB using stock LimeSDR firmware
* DVB-S and DVB-S2 (MPEG-2 and H264) transmissions from a LimeSDR Mini using "LimeDVB" firmware
* DVB-S (MPEG-2 and H264) transmissions from a DATV Express Board connected by USB
* Supported transmit video sources include the Raspberry Pi Camera, C920 WebCam or a USB-connected EasyCap composite video capture device
* Streaming to the BATC Streamer using the Raspberry Pi Camera or EasyCap composite video capture device as a source

===Portsdown 4 receive capabilities:===
When the Portsdown 4 is connected to the internet:
* Display of streams from the BATC Streamer

When a [[MiniTioune|MiniTiouner USB receiver]] is connected via USB:
* Reception and display of DVB-S and DVB-S2 (MPEG-2, H264 and H265) signals - see [[DVB-S/S2 Reception|https://wiki.batc.org.uk/DVB-S/S2_Reception]]

When a [[Knucker|BATC Knucker USB tuner]] is connected by USB:
* Reception and display of DVB-T and DVB-T2 (MPEG-2, H264 and H265) signals

===Portsdown 4 test and alignment aids===

* Control of a Pluto, LimeSDR Mini, DATV Express, ADF4351, Elcom and SLO Microwave Sources using the [[Portsdown 4 Signal Generator]].

* Basic spectrum display of band occupancy using the "[[Portsdown Band Viewer]]" - '''note this requires a LimeSDR Mini to be connected'''.

==Hardware==

[[File:Portsdown 4 Block.PNG|600px]]

No other models of Raspberry Pi or touchscreen are planned to be supported in the near future.

===Portsdown 4 GPIO connections===

Due to a reassignment of the GPIO pins on Raspberry Pi4, the connections are different to previous generations of Portsdown.

The Portsdown 4 GPIO Connections are defined here: [[Portsdown 4 GPIO Connections]].

===Powering the Pluto===

The Raspberry Pi 4 has increased power capabilities on its USB ports, and the Pluto does not work well with USB Hubs, so it is recommended that you connect the Pluto directly to a USB3 port (the blue ones) on the Raspberry Pi 4. Do not use a USB hub or power the Pluto from its USB power port.

===Portsdown hardware===

Full details of the Portsdown hardware [[Portsdown hardware|are available here]].

==Software==

The Portsdown 4 software is available on a pre-programmed SD card which you can buy from the BATC shop https://batc.org.uk/shop/portsdown-transmitter-pre-programmed-sd-card/

If you wish to build your own card the build is on GitHub at https://github.com/BritishAmateurTelevisionClub/portsdown4

==Langstone Narrow band transceiver==

The Portsdown 4 software build is also compatible with the Langstone Microwave transceiver software, which can be loaded from touchscreen selections (menu 2) AFTER the Portsdown software has been installed.

See https://wiki.microwavers.org.uk/Langstone_Project for more details and the full spec of the Langstone.

Note: the Langstone software needs a '''Pluto SDR''' to be connected by USB, and a compatible USB Audio dongle.

==Pluto Capabilities==

The Portsdown 4 support for the Pluto SDR is still under development and there are some limitations on functionality as described here [[Portsdown 4 Pluto]].

==FAQ==

* Is it possible to rotate the PiCam image in software as it is on it's side?
No - you need to do the camera mounting modification which Colin G4KLB described in CQ-TV 267

* Can I upgrade from Langstone or a previous version incluing Portsdown A27?
No - you must start with a clean image on your SD card

* When I try to update I get the error "Unable to contact GitHub for update, Internet connection to Google seems OK". The solution is to log in by ssh and run the following commands:

cd /home/pi
wget https://raw.githubusercontent.com/BritishAmateurTelevisionClub/portsdown4/master/update.sh -O /home/pi/update.sh
chmod +x /home/pi/update.sh
./update.sh

* I have built my Portsdown 4 but the screen is upside down. How can I get it the right way up?

Menu 3, System Config, Invert 7 inch

==More information==

For more information and to ask any questions see https://forum.batc.org.uk/viewtopic.php?f=103&t=6804

Portsdown 4

2021-10-19T14:06:17Z

M0DHP: /* Portsdown 4 transmit and receive capabilities: */

The Portsdown 4 transceiver software has been specifically designed to be used with the Raspberry Pi 4 and the official Raspberry Pi 7 inch touchscreen. It will drive a Pluto SDR or the LimeSDR.

Portsdown 4 is the simplest and easiest to construct, with a barebones system consisting of:

* Raspberry Pi4 2GB model
* 7" touch screen
* 8, 16 or 32 GB SD card
* Adalm Pluto '''or''' Lime SDRmini SDR hardware

This will give you a DVB-S2 and DVB-T DATV transmit system from 30 to 3500 MHz when using a Lime SDR and 50MHz to 4100 MHz with the Pluto.

With the addition of a MiniTiouner USB receiver [[https://wiki.batc.org.uk/MiniTioune]], you will have a full spec DVB-S/S2 DATV transceiver.

With the addition of the [[Knucker|Knucker USB tuner]] you will also have DVB-T receive capabilities.

==Building a Portsdown 4==

Dave G8GKQ published this step by step guide to building a Portsdown 4 in CQ-TV 271:

[[:media:Getting Started With Portsdown 4.pdf]]

==Capabilities==

===Portsdown 4 transmit capabilities:===
* DVB-S, DVB-S2 and DVB-T (H264 only) transmissions from a Pluto SDR connected by USB
* DVB-S, DVB-S2 and DVB-T (MPEG-2 and H264) transmissions from a LimeSDR Mini or LimeSDR USB using stock LimeSDR firmware
* DVB-S and DVB-S2 (MPEG-2 and H264) transmissions from a LimeSDR Mini using "LimeDVB" firmware
* DVB-S (MPEG-2 and H264) transmissions from a DATV Express Board connected by USB
* Supported transmit video sources include the Raspberry Pi Camera, C920 WebCam or a USB-connected EasyCap composite video capture device
* Streaming to the BATC Streamer using the Raspberry Pi Camera or EasyCap composite video capture device as a source

===Portsdown 4 receive capabilities:===
When the Portsdown 4 is connected to the internet:
* Display of streams from the BATC Streamer

When a [[MiniTioune|MiniTiouner USB receiver]] is connected via USB:
* Reception and display of DVB-S and DVB-S2 (MPEG-2, H264 and H265) signals - see [[DVB-S/S2 Reception|https://wiki.batc.org.uk/DVB-S/S2_Reception]]

When a [[Knucker|BATC Knucker USB tuner]] is connected by USB:
* Reception and display of DVB-T and DVB-T2 (MPEG-2, H264 and H265) signals

===Portsdown test and alignment aids===

* Control of a Pluto, LimeSDR Mini, DATV Express, ADF4351, Elcom and SLO Microwave Sources using the [[Portsdown 4 Signal Generator]].

* Basic spectrum display of band occupancy using the "[[Portsdown Band Viewer]]" - '''note this requires a LimeSDR Mini to be connected'''.

==Hardware==

[[File:Portsdown 4 Block.PNG|600px]]

No other models of Raspberry Pi or touchscreen are planned to be supported in the near future.

===Portsdown 4 GPIO connections===

Due to a reassignment of the GPIO pins on Raspberry Pi4, the connections are different to previous generations of Portsdown.

The Portsdown 4 GPIO Connections are defined here: [[Portsdown 4 GPIO Connections]].

===Powering the Pluto===

The Raspberry Pi 4 has increased power capabilities on its USB ports, and the Pluto does not work well with USB Hubs, so it is recommended that you connect the Pluto directly to a USB3 port (the blue ones) on the Raspberry Pi 4. Do not use a USB hub or power the Pluto from its USB power port.

===Portsdown hardware===

Full details of the Portsdown hardware [[Portsdown hardware|are available here]].

==Software==

The Portsdown 4 software is available on a pre-programmed SD card which you can buy from the BATC shop https://batc.org.uk/shop/portsdown-transmitter-pre-programmed-sd-card/

If you wish to build your own card the build is on GitHub at https://github.com/BritishAmateurTelevisionClub/portsdown4

==Langstone Narrow band transceiver==

The Portsdown 4 software build is also compatible with the Langstone Microwave transceiver software, which can be loaded from touchscreen selections (menu 2) AFTER the Portsdown software has been installed.

See https://wiki.microwavers.org.uk/Langstone_Project for more details and the full spec of the Langstone.

Note: the Langstone software needs a '''Pluto SDR''' to be connected by USB, and a compatible USB Audio dongle.

==Pluto Capabilities==

The Portsdown 4 support for the Pluto SDR is still under development and there are some limitations on functionality as described here [[Portsdown 4 Pluto]].

==FAQ==

* Is it possible to rotate the PiCam image in software as it is on it's side?
No - you need to do the camera mounting modification which Colin G4KLB described in CQ-TV 267

* Can I upgrade from Langstone or a previous version incluing Portsdown A27?
No - you must start with a clean image on your SD card

* When I try to update I get the error "Unable to contact GitHub for update, Internet connection to Google seems OK". The solution is to log in by ssh and run the following commands:

cd /home/pi
wget https://raw.githubusercontent.com/BritishAmateurTelevisionClub/portsdown4/master/update.sh -O /home/pi/update.sh
chmod +x /home/pi/update.sh
./update.sh

* I have built my Portsdown 4 but the screen is upside down. How can I get it the right way up?

Menu 3, System Config, Invert 7 inch

==More information==

For more information and to ask any questions see https://forum.batc.org.uk/viewtopic.php?f=103&t=6804

Portsdown 4

2021-10-19T13:57:47Z

M0DHP: /* Portsdown 4 transmit and receive capabilities: */

The Portsdown 4 transceiver software has been specifically designed to be used with the Raspberry Pi 4 and the official Raspberry Pi 7 inch touchscreen. It will drive a Pluto SDR or the LimeSDR.

Portsdown 4 is the simplest and easiest to construct, with a barebones system consisting of:

* Raspberry Pi4 2GB model
* 7" touch screen
* 8, 16 or 32 GB SD card
* Adalm Pluto '''or''' Lime SDRmini SDR hardware

This will give you a DVB-S2 and DVB-T DATV transmit system from 30 to 3500 MHz when using a Lime SDR and 50MHz to 4100 MHz with the Pluto.

With the addition of a MiniTiouner USB receiver [[https://wiki.batc.org.uk/MiniTioune]], you will have a full spec DVB-S/S2 DATV transceiver.

With the addition of the [[Knucker|Knucker USB tuner]] you will also have DVB-T receive capabilities.

==Building a Portsdown 4==

Dave G8GKQ published this step by step guide to building a Portsdown 4 in CQ-TV 271:

[[:media:Getting Started With Portsdown 4.pdf]]

==Capabilities==

===Portsdown 4 transmit and receive capabilities:===
* DVB-S, DVB-S2 and DVB-T (H264 only) transmissions from a Pluto SDR connected by USB
* DVB-S, DVB-S2 and DVB-T (MPEG-2 and H264) transmissions from a LimeSDR Mini or LimeSDR USB using stock LimeSDR firmware
* DVB-S and DVB-S2 (MPEG-2 and H264) transmissions from a LimeSDR Mini using "LimeDVB" firmware
* DVB-S (MPEG-2 and H264) transmissions from a DATV Express Board connected by USB
* Supported transmit video sources include the Raspberry Pi Camera, C920 WebCam or a USB-connected EasyCap composite video capture device
* Streaming to the BATC Streamer using the Raspberry Pi Camera or EasyCap composite video capture device as a source
* Display of streams from the BATC Streamer

When a [[MiniTioune|MiniTiouner USB receiver]] is connected via USB:
* Reception and display of DVB-S and DVB-S2 (MPEG-2, H264 and H265) signals - see [[DVB-S/S2 Reception|https://wiki.batc.org.uk/DVB-S/S2_Reception]]

When a [[Knucker|BATC Knucker USB tuner]] is connected by USB:
* Reception and display of DVB-T and DVB-T2 (MPEG-2, H264 and H265) signals

===Portsdown test and alignment aids===

* Control of a Pluto, LimeSDR Mini, DATV Express, ADF4351, Elcom and SLO Microwave Sources using the [[Portsdown 4 Signal Generator]].

* Basic spectrum display of band occupancy using the "[[Portsdown Band Viewer]]" - '''note this requires a LimeSDR Mini to be connected'''.

==Hardware==

[[File:Portsdown 4 Block.PNG|600px]]

No other models of Raspberry Pi or touchscreen are planned to be supported in the near future.

===Portsdown 4 GPIO connections===

Due to a reassignment of the GPIO pins on Raspberry Pi4, the connections are different to previous generations of Portsdown.

The Portsdown 4 GPIO Connections are defined here: [[Portsdown 4 GPIO Connections]].

===Powering the Pluto===

The Raspberry Pi 4 has increased power capabilities on its USB ports, and the Pluto does not work well with USB Hubs, so it is recommended that you connect the Pluto directly to a USB3 port (the blue ones) on the Raspberry Pi 4. Do not use a USB hub or power the Pluto from its USB power port.

===Portsdown hardware===

Full details of the Portsdown hardware [[Portsdown hardware|are available here]].

==Software==

The Portsdown 4 software is available on a pre-programmed SD card which you can buy from the BATC shop https://batc.org.uk/shop/portsdown-transmitter-pre-programmed-sd-card/

If you wish to build your own card the build is on GitHub at https://github.com/BritishAmateurTelevisionClub/portsdown4

==Langstone Narrow band transceiver==

The Portsdown 4 software build is also compatible with the Langstone Microwave transceiver software, which can be loaded from touchscreen selections (menu 2) AFTER the Portsdown software has been installed.

See https://wiki.microwavers.org.uk/Langstone_Project for more details and the full spec of the Langstone.

Note: the Langstone software needs a '''Pluto SDR''' to be connected by USB, and a compatible USB Audio dongle.

==Pluto Capabilities==

The Portsdown 4 support for the Pluto SDR is still under development and there are some limitations on functionality as described here [[Portsdown 4 Pluto]].

==FAQ==

* Is it possible to rotate the PiCam image in software as it is on it's side?
No - you need to do the camera mounting modification which Colin G4KLB described in CQ-TV 267

* Can I upgrade from Langstone or a previous version incluing Portsdown A27?
No - you must start with a clean image on your SD card

* When I try to update I get the error "Unable to contact GitHub for update, Internet connection to Google seems OK". The solution is to log in by ssh and run the following commands:

cd /home/pi
wget https://raw.githubusercontent.com/BritishAmateurTelevisionClub/portsdown4/master/update.sh -O /home/pi/update.sh
chmod +x /home/pi/update.sh
./update.sh

* I have built my Portsdown 4 but the screen is upside down. How can I get it the right way up?

Menu 3, System Config, Invert 7 inch

==More information==

For more information and to ask any questions see https://forum.batc.org.uk/viewtopic.php?f=103&t=6804

Custom DATV Firmware for the Pluto

2021-07-08T18:31:35Z

M0DHP:

===Foreword===

This is a preview of an article due for publication in CQ-TV 266, published here to promote early experimentation. Thanks to Paul M0EYT for writing it.

Before loading the custom firmware, it may be necessary to extend the frequency range of the Pluto. The instructions for this can be found on this web page: https://wiki.analog.com/university/tools/pluto/users/customizing. Scroll down to the bottom section "Updating to the AD9364".

You may also wish to enable the second CPU core as described here: https://www.ph4x.com/pluto-sdr-hack-2nd-cpu-core/

You can download the firmware at http://firmware.hackhamradio.com. '''This site no longer works.''' '''Updated information about how to get the firmware is here: https://wiki.batc.org.uk/Portsdown_4_Pluto'''

===Introduction===

Firstly, I'm not a DATV expert but have played with a number of SDR's over the years since my first SDR-14 back in 2005. I dabble in GHz stuff so have a rough idea what I'm doing but that’s about it! I like to make sure I learn something new related to technology every day, so both DATV and the PLUTO SDR fulfil this. I got the PLUTO after borrowing one from Jules, G0NZO and being super impressed by it, for the price you really cannot go wrong. It works out of the box, has TX+RX and with a few minutes work, can have its frequency range extended to cover 70MHz to 6GHz, not bad at all, plus it runs Linux internally (Linux pluto 4.14.0-g387d584d434e). The receiver is great and I used the loan unit to listen to all Bell Hill beacons up to 5.7GHz with something akin to a paperclip pushed into the RX port.

[[File:Pluto.png|105px]]

This is the unit in question, shown to the left, it’s very compact at 5"X3"X1" with separate transmit and receive SMA sockets and a pair of micro USB sockets for I/O and power. It draws 400-420mA when idle or transmitting. When the QO100 narrow band transponder was used with PLUTO SDR's for TX, some frequency drift was apparent. It turns out that the integral TCXO wasn’t particularly good, so it's worth replacing it with a decent TCXO such as the ASTX-13-C-40.000MHz-I05-T which you can get from Mouser. This solves all frequency stability issues (well most...). For the ultimate stability, external GPSDO reference is still recommended.

===First Steps===

I've built the Portsdown filter/modulator unit for DVBS which performs really well, but was looking for a non-Lime-SDR method (it’s a long story) of generating DVBS28PSK and 16/32APSK DATV. I saw on Twitter that OM Evariste, F5OEO (@F5OEOEvariste) of RPiTX fame was developing replacement firmware for the PLUTO that would provide DATV capabilities as well as some other goodies, so I pinged him a message and asked if I could beta-test the firmware. The firmware arrived quickly.The 'pluto.frm' file is copied into the root directory of the PLUTO mass storage memory, where the configuration files exist. Once copied up, 'eject' the device, don’t unplug the USB but use the software eject. The blue LED1 in the PLUTO will rapidly flash for 3 or 4 minutes then reboot and the mass storage device will reappear. Full details on this process are at https://wiki.analog.com/university/tools/pluto/users/firmware - don't unplug it during the flash process for obvious reasons; you might brick it. With the SDR still plugged into your PC, you can browse to the internal web-server by pointing a browser at http://192.168.2.1 with all being well you should see something similar to the next screenshot:

[[File:Screenshot.png|450px]]

Having updated the firmware and confirmed that it was working, next was the start of a massive learning curve…What would I need to use to generate some 'digital stream' with video in it? What software should be used? How does the stream get from the PC to the SDR? How do you set all the parameters needed to generate DATV? How do I get video from my phone camera into the PC? The list of questions was growing the more I looked into this stuff....

===Firmware update over LAN===

BTW you may be wondering how you update the Plutos firmware if you are running it via a LAN connection, well, its pretty simple. Download WinSCP, configure it to point at the IP Address of your Pluto, copy the pluto.frm file up to /root (root home directory). Once done, SSH into the Pluto (download Putty or similar) then execute update_frm.sh pluto.frm this will extract the firmware and update the internal flash memory. Once done, type 'reboot'. When the Pluto comes back up, it'll be at the firmware level just uploaded; this saves having to plug the Pluto into a PC via USB and using the normal firmware update method.

===Digital Video Source===

I know John, GI7UGV, as we work in the same industry and know that he's really into DATV, so had a chat with him and within minutes had VMIX (https://www.vmix.com/) installed – this looked like the easiest initial method of doing what I needed; make a PC generate some stream to control the PLUTO. This was pretty intuitive and within half an hour I had a test card source, spitting out the relevant data to the PLUTO. This was done by setting an external RTMP stream target with the following parameters:

URL : rtmp://192.168.2.1:7272/,437,DVBS2,QPSK,333,23,Pass : ,M0EYT,

The above parameters form part of the URL and are parsed by the F5OEO firmware to set the various DATV transmission parameters:

Frequency in MHz: 437
Mode (DVBS/DVBS2): DVBS2
Constellation (QPSK,8PSK,16APSK): QPSK (only QPSK is valid in DVBS)
SymbolRate in KS (33-2000): 333
FEC (12,23,34,67,78...): 23
CALLSIGN: M0EYT

It's particularly important to look at the RTMP stream definition syntax, probably best to cut & paste the above URL / pass text and then modify to suite your own requirements. With the PLUTO SDR plugged into the USB port of the PC running VMIX, it worked right away and a QPSK carrier was being generated at 437MHz, receivable on the Minitiouner. I had noted that VMIX was not free, so rather than spending hours with IDA, and having noted what John 'UGV had said, I decided to uninstall VMIX and give OBS (Open Broadcaster Software https://obsproject.com/download) a try. Since this is open source, there are no licensing 'difficulties' and although it's not as polished as VMIX, it's fully functional and just works.

===OBS Basics===

In OBS the first thing to do is to define the output stream so it points at the PLUTO SDR, so go to settings, stream, and type in the following; obviously tweaking the IP address, modulation parameters and callsign to suit your own environment:

[[File:OBS.png|606px]]

You will be able to see a 'Controls' box docked at the bottom of the OBS window, this is where you press 'start streaming' to enable the PLUTO's DATV output. A green block should appear in the status bar indicating that streaming to the PLUTO is occurring.

Before you jump in and press 'start streaming', you will need to set the streaming bitrate to avoid any overflows between OBS and the PLUTO. Visit http://www.satbroadcasts.com/DVB-S_Bitrate_and_Bandwidth_Calculator.html type in your DVBS/S2 parameters, press calculate, and make a note of the 'Netto TS bitrate' – you want to set your streaming bit rate to about 65% to 70% of this figure. So if the Net TS bitrate is 440Kbps you will want to set your video bitrate to say 286Kbps, better to set it on the lower side. This means that the video plus transport overheads will not cause overflows when streaming data into the PLUTO. Once you are familiar with the various bitrates, and your favourite settings, you will be able to guesstimate the video bitrate in OBS. It is set via 'settings', then 'output', then under the 'streaming' section type your bitrate. I have my encoder set to x264 compression and my audio bitrate set to 64Kbps. With these settings, there are no interruptions in the audio stream and everything works fluidly.

Next, you will need a picture source, so the easiest method in OBS is to go to the 'scenes' dock, press +, enter a name for your scene, such as 'test card'. Next in the 'sources' dock, press +, select video capture device, create new, type in some name and press OK. You should see a 'colour bar / grey fade / bar' test card appear in the 'Preview' window. Ensure that in the 'Controls' dock, you have pressed 'Studio Mode' so you see Preview and Program windows.
Whatever you see in the 'Program' window is the video that is being streamed to your PLUTO.

You can set a number of 'scenes' so that you can quickly select and fade or cut between them. If you have desktop video files these are easy to add. You can create an additional scene and for example put a JPG/PNG image there, or add some desktop video. I found that my camcorder dumped its video out in a .VRO file, never heard of that, but OBS could ingest it and stream it correctly including the stereo audio tracks.

You can also easily add scrolling text messages to overlay across your images, various analogue and digital clocks, inputs from webcams, RTSP CCTV cameras, dancing chicken / cat overlays etc., there are a lots of choices. You probably want to spend a few hours clicking through the various menus to get a handle on the software options and what it can do. I found it fairly easy to set up sources and to be able to chop and change parameters whilst watching the DVB-S2 stream on another laptop. Within OBS it's also worth looking at the various extensions / add-ons that others have written for the platform, these basically are additional features for you to use. You will end up with something similar to my instance:

[[File:OBS Screen.png|585px]]

In my OBS 'scenes' I have an 'rtmp streamer' input, this allows me to use the camera / microphone in my Android mobile phone, along with software called Larix Broadcaster https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.wmspanel.larix_broadcaster - what this does is streams the video from the phone, but you cannot ingest this directly into OBS since you need an RTMP streaming server.

You could use this mobile app to directly stream to the PLUTO SDR but then all the nice video processing features of OBS are lost. Luckily there is a thread at https://forum.batc.org.uk/viewtopic.php?f=69&t=6179 detailing what needs to be done to make build such a server, you can drop this onto one of your Raspberry PI's and it consumes very little CPU. Basically it uses NGINX HTTP server with an RTMP streamer plugin and just works. Point your phone and OBS at the PI's IP with the port defined in the configuration file, press the various go buttons and video / audio will be streamed from the phone into OBS.
If you can get away from having any analogue video sources in your setup, your overall stream output will be digital from the sensor through to the display at the other end of your QSO. This means that quality will be maintained and you won't have poor quality audio with earth loops / buzzing or video that suffers from typical analogue artifacts.

If you want to stream from a Windows desktop into the RTMP server, that is also easy to set up. Firstly download FFMpeg from https://ffmpeg.zeranoe.com/builds/ - you will then need the capture drive which you can get from http://www.umediaserver.net/components/index.html search for UScreenCapture and download the appropriate version. Once both packages are installed, open a command shell and execute the following;

ffmpeg -f dshow -i video="UScreenCapture" -r 10 -c:v libx264 -b:v 300k -preset ultrafast -b 300k -s 1280x800 -x264opts keyint=50 -g 25 -pix_fmt yuv420p -f flv "rtmp://1.2.3.4:1936/live1/desktop"

the -b:v and -b parameters are video bitrate. -s is capture size and -r is 10 frames per second, adjust to suite your particular setup. I tested this with 333Ksps QPSK and it renders nicely. In OBS you should set up a steam source pointing to rtmp://1.2.3.4:1936/live1/desktop to be able to see your desktop image.

Obviously set the target RTMP server IP address to the appropriate address. If you are using John GI7UGV's nginx RTMP server, you can add another directive to support multiple streams. Your /etc/nginx/nginx.conf might look as follows;

worker_processes auto;
rtmp_auto_push on;
events {}
rtmp {
server {
listen 1935;
application live {
live on;
record off;
}
listen 1936;
application live1 {
live on;
record off;
}
}
}

===System Integration===

Having thought briefly about how to integrate the PLUTO into my existing QO100 narrow band system, I decided that it would be better to place all of the needed equipment into the ODU since there are already mains, 10MHz ref, LAN, 70cms IF, etc. connections to the outdoor box.

[[File:Pluto Network.png|313px]]

I found an old USB<>Ethernet adapter and an OTG adapter, plugged it into the PLUTO's USB IO port, and a phone charger battery into the PSU USB port, the PLUTO defaults to DHCP so quickly obtains an IP address once its internal Linux OS has booted.

Network operation really is the way to go as it eliminates lots of USB issues and allows multiple sources to use the SDR without having to continually mess around with USB cables and fragile micro-USB connectors.

Matthias DD1US has written up his PLUTO LAN experiences at http://www.dd1us.de/Downloads/Connecting%20the%20ADALM%20Pluto%20to%20the%20Local%20Area%20Network%20v2.pdf which is worth digesting.

In the final system iteration here at the M0EYT ground station, I'll use a good de-noised 5V PSU, the PLUTO will go in a metal box for mechanical stability purposes, and I'll mount SMA sockets with back to back connectors that have the same hole spacing as the SDR, this should ensure that nothing gets broken.

===PTT output===

The PLUTO Firmware now supports a PTT output so that when a valid RTMP stream starts, the PTT pin changes state to allow amplifiers etc to be keyed. PTT comes from GPO0 circled in red below;

[[File:20191023_124122.jpg|400px]]

The logic-level output is 0/1.2V which is just enough to drive an optocoupler or transistor, a optocoupler provides isolation between the PLUTO and whatever it is you are controlling. A transistor can drive a relay.

M0EYT used a '356' opto-coupler recovered off an old PCB. Note: During the PLUTO boot process the GPO0 pin toggled from low to high, stays there for 5 seconds, then toggles back to low. No RF output was seen during this toggle etc.

F5OEO used two transistors to gate the GPIO0 and GPIO1 signals such that there is no false triggering on start up thanks to idead of Sigi dg9bfc

[[File:Sequence.jpg|400px]]

G0MJW used F5OEO's suggestion and produced a PCB which connects to the GPIO header. Here is the circuit and what it looks like. There are two variants, one designed to fit on the GPIO header, the other a more traditional mounting:

[[File:Relay1.jpg|400px]]
[[File:RealRelay.jpg|400px]]
[[File:Relay2.JPG|400px]]
[[File:Image.JPG|400px]]

The 5V supply can be taken from a suitable point in the Pluto power supply. Look at the schematic on the Analog web site for more information. C157 seems to work.

[[File:Plutomod.jpg|400px]]

Don't short this out or you will send your Pluto back to the underworld where it will have to judge it's own demise. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pluto_(mythology)

The relay contacts can be used to control a power amplifier. This control is your problem, but remember the small PCB relay can only switch 500mA and the optocoupler considerably less.

PCBs are available for sale in the BATC member's shop: https://batc.org.uk/category/projecthw/

Note that with the originally specified relay becoming scarce, the Celduc D71A2100 relay, available as RS Stock No.178-2573 will also work on the low profile PCB

===RF Topics===

The RF output level of the PLUTO is pretty low, about -15dBm at 2.4GHz so clearly this needs some amplification to do anything useful with.I decided to look at some of the random amplifier modules I had laying around and see what each did to the output spectrum, in particular the spectral regrowth / shoulders.
All measurements below are taken with the PLUTO generating DVBS2 at 2409.750MHz centre, 8PSK, 333Ksps, 2/3 FEC.

[[File:6 Avantek.png|400px]]
Avantek SA82-2340

[[File:7 SPF.png|400px]]
SPF5043 + 10dB Pad on o/p

[[File:8 LNA4.png|400px]]
LNA4ALL + 10dB Pad on o/p

[[File:9 3x.png|400px]]
3 X amp 30~dB gain (+ 10dB Pad on o/p)

[[File:11 Pluto Direct.png|400px]]
PLUTO direct output 8PSK baseline

[[File:10 Pluto 8.png|400px]]
PLUTO 8PSK baseline

From the tests of LNA's to get the PLUTO output up a bit, it appears the more modern devices do not add significant IMD to the xPSK providing they are not over driven.
My current experimental TX line up is a dual FET pre-amp taking the PLUTO output to +5dBm, a secondary PA rated at 20watts running at 30dBm, and then a Spectrian PA, modified as per the CQ-TV article to deliver 45dBm, about 30 watts. Looking at the PSK constellation shows that its relatively clean, and the shoulders either side of the 8PSK are 35dB down which should just about be acceptable. I will try to find one of the Axis-NT amplifiers as that would solve all power problems.

===Wrapping Up===

The PLUTO SDR with the F5OEO firmware certainly does offer a simple way to generate DATV from VHF up to the lower microwave bands. For QO100 with a suitable amplifier chain it is ideal and should result in many more users appearing on the wideband transponder. There are no annoying pre-transmission calibration carriers to spatter over the transponder which is nice. A great amount of credit should be given to Evariste F5OEO for his amazing work on this firmware, and I would recommend you donate to his efforts via https://www.paypal.me/f5oeo - something for a decant bottle of wine or two for example! I'm sure that many hundreds of man-hours have been put in to this project so a bit of support won't go a-miss and might even encourage further enhancements.See you on the transponder! Thanks to John GI7UGV for sanity checking this write up ;-)

Es'hail-2 LNBs and Antennaes

2019-02-26T21:31:45Z

M0DHP: /* Goodbay LNB */

The LNB is the electronics placed at the dish feed which downconverts the satellite frequencies (10,700 - 12,750MHz) to L abnd (950 - 2150MHz) which is then sent down the co-ax to the satellite reciever.

A number of LNBs are suitable for receiving amateur band transmissions and this page lists them.

==Octagon LNB==

The octagon range of PLL LNBs were the first mass market LNBs to use a PLL rather than free running DRO for the Local oscillator. This made them suitable for receiving narrow band (SSB and CW) signals although they do suffer some temperature drift. The Farnham Web SDR used an unmodified Octagon LNB as the 10GHz receiver for a couple of years.

This drift has caused a lot of people to investigate locking or replacing the internal crystal reference (27 or 25MHz) with an external TCXO or GPS locked source. Details of how to lock a quad LNB are described lower down on this page and the following is a list of links to pages describing modifications and testing the Octagon units:

[http://g4jnt.com/PLL_LNB_Tests.pdf G4JNT's Modifications and Measurements on a 27MHz PLL Octagon unit]

[http://g4jnt.com/OctagonExtLo.pdf G4JNT's Modification for an External LO (for 27 MHz Octagon LNB)]

[http://www.hb9afo.ch/articles/pll-lnb/10ghz_pll-lnb.htm HB9AFO's Modifications for an external LO on an Avenger LNB (in French)]

https://www.oe7forum.at/viewtopic.php?f=7&t=284&start=135#p1519

https://www.qsl.net/zs6bte/LNB%20Test%20Results.htm

https://forum.amsat-dl.org/index.php?thread/7-modification-of-octagon-oslo-pll-lnb-for-external-frequency-reference/

CQ-TV 261 page 36 had an article by Dave G4FRE on locking the 27MHz Octagon.

===Frequency coverage and operating out of specification===

All LNBs are designed for use on the satellite band 10,700MHz to 12,750MHz and using them to receive either satellite or terrestrial amateur transmissions with a maximum frequency of 10,500MHz (in the UK) is outside their publish specification.

G3YGF posted this on the UKmicrowave group forum:

''I have measured a few of these. The earlier 27MHz dual version has about 1.2dB NF at 980MHz (bottom of tv satellite band) and at 618MHz (10368MHz), on both polarisations. Later ones are typically 1.5dB at 980MHz on either polarisation, and at 618MHz (10368MHz) about 1.5dB on the probe furthest from the backshort (V >15) and 2dB on the probe nearest the backshort (V <15v).''

''The 25MHz dual version is about 1.2dB at 980MHz on either polarisation,
and at 618MHz 1.2dB on the probe furthest from the backshort and about 2.9dB on the probe nearest the backshort.
(Measurements made using sky/ground noise).''
''The main difference appears to be that the gain rolls off much more rapidly below the satellite band in the FET preamplifier on the probe nearest the backshort, so changing the IF makes no difference.
The figures are approximate - they do vary somewhat between samples...''

''The measurements are on unmodified LNBs.''

''We use these LNBs on the FRARS EME system and attempts to modify the LNB to interface to WG16 or different circular feeds usually lose about 0.3-0.4dB.''
''We are currently trying to work out why... Matching screws do not improve it, so I don't think it is the Lambda-g......''

===Locking the Quad Octagon LNB to a 25 MHz Reference===

The Octagon "Quad LNB Green" Model OQSLG Green HQ can easily be modified to run from an external 25 MHz reference fed in on one of its F-type sockets, while still providing 3 horizontal or vertical outputs. This LNB is available (Jan 2019) from Amazon UK for under £15. The item title is "Octagon 0.1db Quad High Gain HD Ready Universal LNB", but check carefully that you get the OQSLG model. The modifications described below have been done on 2 LNBs by G8GKQ.

[[File:Box_small.jpg|410px]]

After prising off the white plastic cover (NOT the green cap on the feedhorn), and scraping away the sealant, 5 torx screws are exposed. Undo these screws and cut around the sealant at the edge of the cover. Then using a small screwdriver in the slot at the top of the unit, lever the cover off. The PCB looks like this:

[[File:LNB_PCB_small.jpg|800px]]

The 25 MHz crystal is mounted on the reverse side of the board, just North of the West-most 78H06 regulator. The modification involves cutting the tracks leading to the West-most output and then coupling this to the East-most crystal connection, having cut the tracks to the crystal. Use a magnifying glass, a fine knife and a fine soldering iron, taking anti-static precautions.

[[File:Post-mod cuts.jpg|804px]]

The track cuts can be seen here. The first is in the zig-zag inductor to cut the DC path from the socket. The second is in the RF path just South of the East-most crystal connection. The 3rd and 4th cuts are adjacent to the crystal connection.

[[File:Post-mod-3.JPG|804px]]

I then soldered a 10n capacitor across the old RF capacitors. I put a 100 ohm chip resistor to ground at the middle of the East-West RF track, and then a 10n chip capacitor from the East end of the RF track to the track which used to connect to the crystal.

The LNB should then be tested with a 25 MHz reference. Note that it will not now operate without a reference signal. If all is well, the cover can be replaced. Before putting the LNB on the dish, I sealed around the cover using a neutral cure silicone sealer. Screwfix 83710 is cheap and does the job.

===Suitable 25 MHz Reference===

The modified LNB will run from a square wave or sine wave at 25 MHz, but needs around +6 dBm. Lower levels of reference increase the Phase noise. I used a Leo Bodnar GPS reference, with a low pass filter so that I fed a sine wave through the cable to the LNB.

[[File:25 MHz filter.JPG|500px]]

The low pass filter had 5 elements, 288 pf to ground on the input, a series inductor of about 10 turns on a 4 mm core, 407 pf to ground in the centre, then another identical series inductor and 288 pf on the output.

===Phase Noise===

While having a stable LO might be perfect for narrow-band operation, any increase in phase noise might reduce the apparent sensitivity for DATV. I found that a 1MS DVB-S signal that gave 24 dB MER with the crystal oscillator only gave 21 dB MER with the external reference; this will need more investigation.

==Goobay LNB==

To be completed

Es'hail-2 DATV Bandplan

2019-02-22T20:20:05Z

M0DHP: Removed two duplicated rows.

The Es'hail-2 Digital ATV operating guidelines and bandplan can be found here: [[:Media:Eshail2 DATV Bandplan V1c.pdf|Es'hail-2 DATV Bandplan Version 1c]].

The bandplan can also be represented graphically:

[[File:Bandplan Graphic4.JPG|808px]]

Here is a simple list of channels:

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Designator !! Uplink Freq MHz !! Downlink Freq MHz !! IF Freq MHz
|-
| 2MS1||2403.000||10492.500||742.500
|-
| 2MS2||2406.000||10495.500||745.500
|-
| 1MS1||2402.250||10491.750||741.750
|-
| 1MS2||2403.750||10493.250||743.250
|-
| 1MS3||2405.250||10494.750||744.750
|-
| 1MS4||2406.750||10496.250||746.250
|-
| 333KS1||2407.750||10497.250||747.250
|-
| 333KS2||2408.250||10497.750||747.750
|-
| 333KS3||2408.750||10498.250||748.250
|-
| 333KS4||2409.250||10498.750||748.750
|-
| 125KS1||2407.625||10497.125||747.125
|-
| 125KS2||2407.875||10497.375||747.375
|-
| 125KS3||2408.125||10497.625||747.625
|-
| 125KS4||2408.375||10497.875||747.875
|-
| 125KS5||2408.625||10498.125||748.125
|-
| 125KS6||2408.875||10498.375||748.375
|-
| 125KS7||2409.125||10498.625||748.625
|-
| 125KS8||2409.375||10498.875||748.875
|-
|
|}

You can print this list as a .pdf:[[:media:Bandplan Channels.pdf|Printed Channel Sheet]]

Or enter your own local oscillator frequency into this spreadsheet and print a customised copy. [[:File:Bandplan Channels Calculator.xls]]

UK ATV repeaters

2019-02-02T12:28:52Z

M0DHP: /* GB3GV */

There are over 30 active ATV repeaters in the UK and the current status and operating frequencies can be found on the [https://www.ukrepeater.net/repeaterlist5.htm RSGB ETCC TV list]

You can watch most UK ATV repeaters on the [http://www.batc.tv/ch_live.php BATC video streaming service.]

[[File:tvrepeaters.JPG|400px]]

To add your repeater to this page, simply add a description, preferably in alphabetic order.
=== GB3AT ===
GB3AT is the new 10 GHz TV repeater project on the Isle of Wight at IO90IR.

Currently testing as G8MBU's personal beacon

Output (analogue): 10235 MHz FM ATV

=== GB3ET ===
GB3ET is the proposed new 23cms ATV repeater at Edgehill approximately 6 Miles NW of Banbury.

=== GB3FT ===
GB3FT is the new 23cms TV repeater for Blackpool and surrounding area.

=== GB3GV ===
GB3GV is a 23cm ATV repeater located in Markfield Leicestershire and operated by the Leicestershire Repeater Group

Output (digital) is 1318.5Mhz (4M/S 1/2FEC)

Input (digital and analogue) 1249Mhz (4M/S 1/2FEC for digital)

Input (digital only) 437Mhz (2M/S 1/2 FEC)

Narrowband RX is planned on 146.5Mhz (333K/S 7/8FEC)

Talkback on 144.750, if busy we may switch to 144.525

Visit [https://www.leicestershirerepeatergroup.org.uk/repeaters/gb3gv Leicestershire Repeater Group] for more information

=== GB3HV ===
GB3HV is the 3.4 GHz output repeater located near Farnham in Surrey.
For more details visit our [http://www.gb3hv.com/ website].

=== GB3JT ===
GB3JT is the new 23cms TV repeater for Hastings and surrounding area. 
Output (digital): 1318 MHz DVB-S, 4 MSymbols, 1/2 FEC. (24/7 TX Video Test Card during Testing) 
Input (analogue): 1249 MHz (Under Development. Future RX) 
Input (digital): 1249 MHz DVB-S, 4 Msymbols, auto FEC, PIDs auto detected (Under Development. Future RX) 
Input (digital): 437 MHz DVB-S, 2 Msymbols, auto FEC, PIDs auto detected (Under Development. Future RX with added cavities due to other co-located 70cm repeaters) 

The repeater antenna is an Angled Slot, mounted on top of the GB3HE four stack, which is on top of the main mast located ~ 500 feet ASL on the Ark Helenswood in Hastings TN34 2AF. 

Talkback audio channel is currently taken directly from GB3HE, with future 2M RX to be added. DATV/ATV audio will be auto switching on second channel. 

For more details please visit [http://www.rilges.org.uk RILGES Repeater Group]. 

===GB3KM===
Located in Kirk Merrington, County Durham, IO94EQ - 200mAsl. 
Analogue Inputs: 1.280GHz, 2.328GHz, 5.665GHz (6.5MHz Audio), 10.315GHz. 
Digital Input: 1.280GHz - 4Ms, MPEG-2 FEC:Auto PMT:4095 V:256 A:257. 
 
Primary Digital Output: 3.406GHz 2Ms, MPEG-2 FEC:7/8 PMT:4095 V:256 A:257. 
Secondary Analogue Outputs: 2.440GHz, 10.065GHz. 
 
Live video is streamed from 9cm output by M0DTS - 28km from the repeater using an indoor antenna. 
144.750 audio currently off. 
Operating hours 11:30-23:30. 

=== GB3NV ===
GB3NV is the 9cm TV repeater for central Norwich. 
Output (digital): 3406 MHz sr2000 ks/s 
Input (digital): 437 MHz sr2000 ks/s PIDs auto detected by rx 
Full details here: https://forum.batc.org.uk/viewtopic.php?f=95&t=4726&p=11191

=== GB3TM ===
GB3TM is the 23cm TV repeater for the Isle of Anglesey and North Wales coastal areas. 
Output (digital): 1316 MHz sr4700 ks/s 
Input (analogue): 1249 MHz 
Input (digital): 437 MHz sr2000 ks/s PIDs auto detected by rx 
For more details please visit [http://www.arfon.info Arfon Repeater Group]. 

=== GB3TN ===
GB3TN is the 23cm TV repeater located in central Norfolk. 
Output (analogue): 1316 MHz 
Input (analogue): 1249 MHz 
Input (digital): 437 MHz sr2000 ks/s PIDs auto detected by rx 

===GB3UD===
GB3UD is an ATV repeater situated at Mow Cop, Staffordshire IO83VC. 
Output Digital @ 1318.5 Mhz @4MS/s VID 162 - PMT 32 - AUDIO 88 - FEC 1/2. 
Input (Analogue and Digital) 1249 MHz. 
NOTE OUTPUT IS DIGITAL ONLY REGARDLESS OF ANALOGUE OR DIGITAL INPUT USED. 

=== GB3UT ===
Bath University
Analogue Input frequency = 1249.0MHz Analogue Output frequency = 1311.5MHz
Digital input also available on 1249.00MHz @ 4MS/s with a fec of 3/4

=== GB3YT ===
GB3YT is the 23cm TV Repeater located in Mirfield, West Yorkshire. 
23cm Digital input frequency = 1276MHz (QPSK): SR = 4Ms/s : FEC = 1,2 
70cm Digital input frequency = 437Mhz : SR = 2Ms/s : FEC = 1,2 
Analogue input frequency = 1276MHz (FM) : Audio 6MHz 
Digital only output = 1316MHz : SR = 4Ms/s 
Talkback on 2m = 144.750MHz (CTCSS 118.8Hz) 
During QSO, Main audio on Left channel, 2m talkback on Right audio channel. 
Full details and latest news at [http://www.gb3yt.co.uk GB3YT Website] 

=== GB3ZZ ===
Filton, north Bristol.
Transmits digital ATV on 1316MHz and accepts DATV or FM input on 1249MHz and DATV input on 437MHz.

UK ATV repeaters

2019-02-02T12:22:16Z

M0DHP: /* GB3GV */

There are over 30 active ATV repeaters in the UK and the current status and operating frequencies can be found on the [https://www.ukrepeater.net/repeaterlist5.htm RSGB ETCC TV list]

You can watch most UK ATV repeaters on the [http://www.batc.tv/ch_live.php BATC video streaming service.]

[[File:tvrepeaters.JPG|400px]]

To add your repeater to this page, simply add a description, preferably in alphabetic order.
=== GB3AT ===
GB3AT is the new 10 GHz TV repeater project on the Isle of Wight at IO90IR.

Currently testing as G8MBU's personal beacon

Output (analogue): 10235 MHz FM ATV

=== GB3ET ===
GB3ET is the proposed new 23cms ATV repeater at Edgehill approximately 6 Miles NW of Banbury.

=== GB3FT ===
GB3FT is the new 23cms TV repeater for Blackpool and surrounding area.

=== GB3GV ===
GB3GV is a 23cm ATV repeater located in Markfield Leicestershire and operated by the Leicestershire Repeater Group

Output (digital) is 1318.5Mhz (4M/S 1/2FEC)

Input (digital and analogue) 1249Mhz (4M/S 1/2FEC for digital)

Input (digital only) 437Mhz (2M/S 1/2 FEC)

Narrowband RX is planned on 146.5Mhz (333K/S 7/8FEC)

Talkback on 144.750, if busy we may switch to 144.525

Visit https://www.leicestershirerepeatergroup.org.uk/repeaters/gb3gv for more information

=== GB3HV ===
GB3HV is the 3.4 GHz output repeater located near Farnham in Surrey.
For more details visit our [http://www.gb3hv.com/ website].

=== GB3JT ===
GB3JT is the new 23cms TV repeater for Hastings and surrounding area. 
Output (digital): 1318 MHz DVB-S, 4 MSymbols, 1/2 FEC. (24/7 TX Video Test Card during Testing) 
Input (analogue): 1249 MHz (Under Development. Future RX) 
Input (digital): 1249 MHz DVB-S, 4 Msymbols, auto FEC, PIDs auto detected (Under Development. Future RX) 
Input (digital): 437 MHz DVB-S, 2 Msymbols, auto FEC, PIDs auto detected (Under Development. Future RX with added cavities due to other co-located 70cm repeaters) 

The repeater antenna is an Angled Slot, mounted on top of the GB3HE four stack, which is on top of the main mast located ~ 500 feet ASL on the Ark Helenswood in Hastings TN34 2AF. 

Talkback audio channel is currently taken directly from GB3HE, with future 2M RX to be added. DATV/ATV audio will be auto switching on second channel. 

For more details please visit [http://www.rilges.org.uk RILGES Repeater Group]. 

===GB3KM===
Located in Kirk Merrington, County Durham, IO94EQ - 200mAsl. 
Analogue Inputs: 1.280GHz, 2.328GHz, 5.665GHz (6.5MHz Audio), 10.315GHz. 
Digital Input: 1.280GHz - 4Ms, MPEG-2 FEC:Auto PMT:4095 V:256 A:257. 
 
Primary Digital Output: 3.406GHz 2Ms, MPEG-2 FEC:7/8 PMT:4095 V:256 A:257. 
Secondary Analogue Outputs: 2.440GHz, 10.065GHz. 
 
Live video is streamed from 9cm output by M0DTS - 28km from the repeater using an indoor antenna. 
144.750 audio currently off. 
Operating hours 11:30-23:30. 

=== GB3NV ===
GB3NV is the 9cm TV repeater for central Norwich. 
Output (digital): 3406 MHz sr2000 ks/s 
Input (digital): 437 MHz sr2000 ks/s PIDs auto detected by rx 
Full details here: https://forum.batc.org.uk/viewtopic.php?f=95&t=4726&p=11191

=== GB3TM ===
GB3TM is the 23cm TV repeater for the Isle of Anglesey and North Wales coastal areas. 
Output (digital): 1316 MHz sr4700 ks/s 
Input (analogue): 1249 MHz 
Input (digital): 437 MHz sr2000 ks/s PIDs auto detected by rx 
For more details please visit [http://www.arfon.info Arfon Repeater Group]. 

=== GB3TN ===
GB3TN is the 23cm TV repeater located in central Norfolk. 
Output (analogue): 1316 MHz 
Input (analogue): 1249 MHz 
Input (digital): 437 MHz sr2000 ks/s PIDs auto detected by rx 

===GB3UD===
GB3UD is an ATV repeater situated at Mow Cop, Staffordshire IO83VC. 
Output Digital @ 1318.5 Mhz @4MS/s VID 162 - PMT 32 - AUDIO 88 - FEC 1/2. 
Input (Analogue and Digital) 1249 MHz. 
NOTE OUTPUT IS DIGITAL ONLY REGARDLESS OF ANALOGUE OR DIGITAL INPUT USED. 

=== GB3UT ===
Bath University
Analogue Input frequency = 1249.0MHz Analogue Output frequency = 1311.5MHz
Digital input also available on 1249.00MHz @ 4MS/s with a fec of 3/4

=== GB3YT ===
GB3YT is the 23cm TV Repeater located in Mirfield, West Yorkshire. 
23cm Digital input frequency = 1276MHz (QPSK): SR = 4Ms/s : FEC = 1,2 
70cm Digital input frequency = 437Mhz : SR = 2Ms/s : FEC = 1,2 
Analogue input frequency = 1276MHz (FM) : Audio 6MHz 
Digital only output = 1316MHz : SR = 4Ms/s 
Talkback on 2m = 144.750MHz (CTCSS 118.8Hz) 
During QSO, Main audio on Left channel, 2m talkback on Right audio channel. 
Full details and latest news at [http://www.gb3yt.co.uk GB3YT Website] 

=== GB3ZZ ===
Filton, north Bristol.
Transmits digital ATV on 1316MHz and accepts DATV or FM input on 1249MHz and DATV input on 437MHz.

Watching the new streamer

2018-09-10T15:51:11Z

M0DHP: /* Firefox browser */

'''Before you can watch any channels on the new BATC site you will probably need to ''enable Flash for the site''.'''
Note - you probably have Flash already installed and working on other sites but you MUST ENABLE it for every site you go to.

Channels on the streamer can be set to Flash or HTML5 by the owner. Flash has the advantage of minimal delay but each site you go to needs specifically enabling in Chrome, Firefox and Edge browsers. HTML5 works with all modern browsers, including Safari on iPhones and iPads, but is subject to a 10 - 20 second delay.

===Watching Flash streams on the Streamer===

'''If you are using an iPad or iPhone, you will NOT be able to watch streams that have been set by the owner to use Flash ''' - you can only watch streams using HTML5 on these devices (unless you download a Flash-compatible browser such as Puffin).

====Chrome browser====

[[File:chromeflash.jpg|400px]]

If you get a image of white noise when you try to browse a stream, you need to tell the Chrome browser that the new BATC site is safe for the use of Flash. To do this:

# Right click on the word “Secure” in green at the left handside of the address bar.
# Select Site Settings - this will open in a new tab.
# Go down to Flash (6 on the list), click on the arrow on the right handside, and select allow.
# Close the tab which settings has opened in and refresh the original page.

Your browser will remember this setting and you should not have to do it again for the BATC Site.

Note: Versions of Chrome from September 2018 onwards no longer remember this setting when you close the browser and you will have to re-enable Flash for the streamer each time you run Chrome. There is a way to override this (https://forum.batc.org.uk/viewtopic.php?p=16650#p16650) but it comes with a health warning.

====Firefox browser====

If you just get a blank screen on a channel in Firefox you will need to enable Flash:

* Click on the video window

[[File:fflash1.JPG|600px]]

* Click on the Flash symbol in the middle of the window
* A dialogue box will appear at the top of the browser - tick "remember the decision" and then click "Allow"

====Microsoft Edge====

To view Flash streaming in Microsoft edge, turn on Adobe by clicking on the padlock at the top of the window.

===Watching HTML5 streams on the Streamer===

Depending on which browser you are using, you may need to click on the video window to start the stream. Remember that the stream is subject to a 10 - 20 second delay.

===Why do I need to re-enable Flash?===

When we switched from the old site, the Flash stream switched from being served by insecure http from www.batc.tv, to being served by the more secure https from batc.org.uk/live - a new site. Your browser effectively said “Finally, I can set this up as a trusted secure Flash source if the user lets me” and thus it asks you for permission.

Similarly, when your browser tries to connect to the Server when HTML5 is enabled, the server looks at what the browser tells it, and recognises that the browser can handle Flash (even if it is not enabled by the user). So it gives your browser Flash and the browser asks that you enable it. If your browser told the server that it could not handle Flash (as happens with Safari on an iPhone) the server will send it HTML5.

In our investigations of members' problems with Flash, all the problems so far have been due to browsers where Flash had not been enabled (using the instructions above), or a non-Flash capable device was being used.

===Why are we using Flash and HTML5?===

Flash needs enabling in all modern browsers, and HTML5 has a long delay - so why are we using them?

We looked long and hard, but could not find an open-source low latency alternative to Flash. The alternatives were either closed-source or one-to-one and we are looking for an open-source one-to-many implementation.

HTML5 works well with mobile devices, but the standard has an in-built delay of between 10 and 20 seconds. Again, we have been unable to find a viable alternative open-source technology to stream to mobile devices.

Watching the new streamer

2018-09-10T15:50:14Z

M0DHP: /* Chrome browser */

'''Before you can watch any channels on the new BATC site you will probably need to ''enable Flash for the site''.'''
Note - you probably have Flash already installed and working on other sites but you MUST ENABLE it for every site you go to.

Channels on the streamer can be set to Flash or HTML5 by the owner. Flash has the advantage of minimal delay but each site you go to needs specifically enabling in Chrome, Firefox and Edge browsers. HTML5 works with all modern browsers, including Safari on iPhones and iPads, but is subject to a 10 - 20 second delay.

===Watching Flash streams on the Streamer===

'''If you are using an iPad or iPhone, you will NOT be able to watch streams that have been set by the owner to use Flash ''' - you can only watch streams using HTML5 on these devices (unless you download a Flash-compatible browser such as Puffin).

====Chrome browser====

[[File:chromeflash.jpg|400px]]

If you get a image of white noise when you try to browse a stream, you need to tell the Chrome browser that the new BATC site is safe for the use of Flash. To do this:

# Right click on the word “Secure” in green at the left handside of the address bar.
# Select Site Settings - this will open in a new tab.
# Go down to Flash (6 on the list), click on the arrow on the right handside, and select allow.
# Close the tab which settings has opened in and refresh the original page.

Your browser will remember this setting and you should not have to do it again for the BATC Site.

Note: Versions of Chrome from September 2018 onwards no longer remember this setting when you close the browser and you will have to re-enable Flash for the streamer each time you run Chrome. There is a way to override this (https://forum.batc.org.uk/viewtopic.php?p=16650#p16650) but it comes with a health warning.

====Firefox browser====

If you just get a blank screen on a channel in Firefox you will need to enable flash:

* Click on the video window

[[File:fflash1.JPG|600px]]

* Click on the flash symbol in the middle of the window
* A dialogue box will appear at the top of the browser - tick "remember the decision" and then click "Allow"

====Microsoft Edge====

To view Flash streaming in Microsoft edge, turn on Adobe by clicking on the padlock at the top of the window.

===Watching HTML5 streams on the Streamer===

Depending on which browser you are using, you may need to click on the video window to start the stream. Remember that the stream is subject to a 10 - 20 second delay.

===Why do I need to re-enable Flash?===

When we switched from the old site, the Flash stream switched from being served by insecure http from www.batc.tv, to being served by the more secure https from batc.org.uk/live - a new site. Your browser effectively said “Finally, I can set this up as a trusted secure Flash source if the user lets me” and thus it asks you for permission.

Similarly, when your browser tries to connect to the Server when HTML5 is enabled, the server looks at what the browser tells it, and recognises that the browser can handle Flash (even if it is not enabled by the user). So it gives your browser Flash and the browser asks that you enable it. If your browser told the server that it could not handle Flash (as happens with Safari on an iPhone) the server will send it HTML5.

In our investigations of members' problems with Flash, all the problems so far have been due to browsers where Flash had not been enabled (using the instructions above), or a non-Flash capable device was being used.

===Why are we using Flash and HTML5?===

Flash needs enabling in all modern browsers, and HTML5 has a long delay - so why are we using them?

We looked long and hard, but could not find an open-source low latency alternative to Flash. The alternatives were either closed-source or one-to-one and we are looking for an open-source one-to-many implementation.

HTML5 works well with mobile devices, but the standard has an in-built delay of between 10 and 20 seconds. Again, we have been unable to find a viable alternative open-source technology to stream to mobile devices.

Watching the new streamer

2018-09-10T15:46:01Z

M0DHP: /* Chrome browser */

'''Before you can watch any channels on the new BATC site you will probably need to ''enable Flash for the site''.'''
Note - you probably have Flash already installed and working on other sites but you MUST ENABLE it for every site you go to.

Channels on the streamer can be set to Flash or HTML5 by the owner. Flash has the advantage of minimal delay but each site you go to needs specifically enabling in Chrome, Firefox and Edge browsers. HTML5 works with all modern browsers, including Safari on iPhones and iPads, but is subject to a 10 - 20 second delay.

===Watching Flash streams on the Streamer===

'''If you are using an iPad or iPhone, you will NOT be able to watch streams that have been set by the owner to use Flash ''' - you can only watch streams using HTML5 on these devices (unless you download a Flash-compatible browser such as Puffin).

====Chrome browser====

[[File:chromeflash.jpg|400px]]

If you get a image of white noise when you try to browse a stream, you need to tell the Chrome browser that the new BATC site is safe for the use of Flash. To do this:

# Right click on the word “Secure” in green at the left handside of the address bar.
# Select Site Settings - this will open in a new tab.
# Go down to Flash (6 on the list), click on the arrow on the right handside, and select allow.
# Close the tab which settings has opened in and refresh the original page.

Your browser will remember this setting and you should not have to do it again for the BATC Site.

Note: Versions of Chrome from September 2018 onwards no longer remember this setting when you close the browser.

====Firefox browser====

If you just get a blank screen on a channel in Firefox you will need to enable flash:

* Click on the video window

[[File:fflash1.JPG|600px]]

* Click on the flash symbol in the middle of the window
* A dialogue box will appear at the top of the browser - tick "remember the decision" and then click "Allow"

====Microsoft Edge====

To view Flash streaming in Microsoft edge, turn on Adobe by clicking on the padlock at the top of the window.

===Watching HTML5 streams on the Streamer===

Depending on which browser you are using, you may need to click on the video window to start the stream. Remember that the stream is subject to a 10 - 20 second delay.

===Why do I need to re-enable Flash?===

When we switched from the old site, the Flash stream switched from being served by insecure http from www.batc.tv, to being served by the more secure https from batc.org.uk/live - a new site. Your browser effectively said “Finally, I can set this up as a trusted secure Flash source if the user lets me” and thus it asks you for permission.

Similarly, when your browser tries to connect to the Server when HTML5 is enabled, the server looks at what the browser tells it, and recognises that the browser can handle Flash (even if it is not enabled by the user). So it gives your browser Flash and the browser asks that you enable it. If your browser told the server that it could not handle Flash (as happens with Safari on an iPhone) the server will send it HTML5.

In our investigations of members' problems with Flash, all the problems so far have been due to browsers where Flash had not been enabled (using the instructions above), or a non-Flash capable device was being used.

===Why are we using Flash and HTML5?===

Flash needs enabling in all modern browsers, and HTML5 has a long delay - so why are we using them?

We looked long and hard, but could not find an open-source low latency alternative to Flash. The alternatives were either closed-source or one-to-one and we are looking for an open-source one-to-many implementation.

HTML5 works well with mobile devices, but the standard has an in-built delay of between 10 and 20 seconds. Again, we have been unable to find a viable alternative open-source technology to stream to mobile devices.

Watching the new streamer

2018-09-10T15:45:42Z

M0DHP:

'''Before you can watch any channels on the new BATC site you will probably need to ''enable Flash for the site''.'''
Note - you probably have Flash already installed and working on other sites but you MUST ENABLE it for every site you go to.

Channels on the streamer can be set to Flash or HTML5 by the owner. Flash has the advantage of minimal delay but each site you go to needs specifically enabling in Chrome, Firefox and Edge browsers. HTML5 works with all modern browsers, including Safari on iPhones and iPads, but is subject to a 10 - 20 second delay.

===Watching Flash streams on the Streamer===

'''If you are using an iPad or iPhone, you will NOT be able to watch streams that have been set by the owner to use Flash ''' - you can only watch streams using HTML5 on these devices (unless you download a Flash-compatible browser such as Puffin).

====Chrome browser====

[[File:chromeflash.jpg|400px]]

If you get a image of white noise when you try to browse a stream, you need to tell the Chrome browser that the new BATC site is safe for the use of Flash. To do this:

# Right click on the word “Secure” in green at the left handside of the address bar.
# Select Site Settings - this will open in a new tab.
# Go down to Flash (6 on the list), click on the arrow on the right handside, and select allow.
# Close the tab which settings has opened in and refresh the original page.

Your browser will remember this setting and you should not have to do it again for the BATC Site.

Note: Versions of Chrome after September 2018 no longer remember this setting when you close the browser.

====Firefox browser====

If you just get a blank screen on a channel in Firefox you will need to enable flash:

* Click on the video window

[[File:fflash1.JPG|600px]]

* Click on the flash symbol in the middle of the window
* A dialogue box will appear at the top of the browser - tick "remember the decision" and then click "Allow"

====Microsoft Edge====

To view Flash streaming in Microsoft edge, turn on Adobe by clicking on the padlock at the top of the window.

===Watching HTML5 streams on the Streamer===

Depending on which browser you are using, you may need to click on the video window to start the stream. Remember that the stream is subject to a 10 - 20 second delay.

===Why do I need to re-enable Flash?===

When we switched from the old site, the Flash stream switched from being served by insecure http from www.batc.tv, to being served by the more secure https from batc.org.uk/live - a new site. Your browser effectively said “Finally, I can set this up as a trusted secure Flash source if the user lets me” and thus it asks you for permission.

Similarly, when your browser tries to connect to the Server when HTML5 is enabled, the server looks at what the browser tells it, and recognises that the browser can handle Flash (even if it is not enabled by the user). So it gives your browser Flash and the browser asks that you enable it. If your browser told the server that it could not handle Flash (as happens with Safari on an iPhone) the server will send it HTML5.

In our investigations of members' problems with Flash, all the problems so far have been due to browsers where Flash had not been enabled (using the instructions above), or a non-Flash capable device was being used.

===Why are we using Flash and HTML5?===

Flash needs enabling in all modern browsers, and HTML5 has a long delay - so why are we using them?

We looked long and hard, but could not find an open-source low latency alternative to Flash. The alternatives were either closed-source or one-to-one and we are looking for an open-source one-to-many implementation.

HTML5 works well with mobile devices, but the standard has an in-built delay of between 10 and 20 seconds. Again, we have been unable to find a viable alternative open-source technology to stream to mobile devices.

Watching the new streamer

2018-06-15T11:45:47Z

M0DHP: /* Watching Flash streams on the Streamer */

'''Before you can watch any channels on the new BATC site you will probably need to ''enable Flash for the site''.'''
Note - you probably have Flashed already installed and working on other sites but you MUST ENABLE it for every site you go to.

Channels on the streamer can be set to Flash or HTML5 by the owner. Flash has the advantage of minimal delay but each site you go to needs specifically enabling in Chrome, Firefox and Edge browsers. HTML5 works with all modern browsers, including Safari on iPhones and iPads, but is subject to a 10 - 20 second delay.

===Watching Flash streams on the Streamer===

'''If you are using an iPad or iPhone, you will NOT be able to watch streams that have been set by the owner to use Flash ''' - you can only watch streams using HTML5 on these devices (unless you download a Flash-compatible browser such as Puffin).

====Chrome browser====

[[File:chromeflash.jpg|400px]]

If you get a image of white noise when you try to browse a stream, you need to tell the Chrome browser that the new BATC site is safe for the use of Flash. To do this:

# Right click on the word “Secure” in green at the left handside of the address bar.
# Select Site Settings - this will open in a new tab.
# Go down to Flash (6 on the list), click on the arrow on the right handside, and select allow.
# Close the tab which settings has opened in and refresh the original page.

Your browser will remember this setting and you should not have to do it again for the BATC Site.

====Firefox browser====

If you just get a blank screen on a channel in Firefox you will need to enable flash:

* Click on the video window

[[File:fflash1.JPG|600px]]

* Click on the flash symbol in the middle of the window
* A dialogue box will appear at the top of the browser - tick "remember the decision" and then click "Allow"

====Microsoft Edge====

To view Flash streaming in Microsoft edge, turn on Adobe by clicking on the padlock at the top of the window.

===Watching HTML5 streams on the Streamer===

Depending on which browser you are using, you may need to click on the video window to start the stream. Remember that the stream is subject to a 10 - 20 second delay.

Watching the new streamer

2018-06-15T11:45:08Z

M0DHP: /* Watching Flash streams on the Streamer */

'''Before you can watch any channels on the new BATC site you will probably need to ''enable Flash for the site''.'''
Note - you probably have Flashed already installed and working on other sites but you MUST ENABLE it for every site you go to.

Channels on the streamer can be set to Flash or HTML5 by the owner. Flash has the advantage of minimal delay but each site you go to needs specifically enabling in Chrome, Firefox and Edge browsers. HTML5 works with all modern browsers, including Safari on iPhones and iPads, but is subject to a 10 - 20 second delay.

===Watching Flash streams on the Streamer===

'''If you are using an iPad or iPhone you will NOT be able to watch streams that have been set by the owner to use Flash ''' - you can only watch streams using HTML5 on these devices (unless you download a Flash-compatible browser such as Puffin).

====Chrome browser====

[[File:chromeflash.jpg|400px]]

If you get a image of white noise when you try to browse a stream, you need to tell the Chrome browser that the new BATC site is safe for the use of Flash. To do this:

# Right click on the word “Secure” in green at the left handside of the address bar.
# Select Site Settings - this will open in a new tab.
# Go down to Flash (6 on the list), click on the arrow on the right handside, and select allow.
# Close the tab which settings has opened in and refresh the original page.

Your browser will remember this setting and you should not have to do it again for the BATC Site.

====Firefox browser====

If you just get a blank screen on a channel in Firefox you will need to enable flash:

* Click on the video window

[[File:fflash1.JPG|600px]]

* Click on the flash symbol in the middle of the window
* A dialogue box will appear at the top of the browser - tick "remember the decision" and then click "Allow"

====Microsoft Edge====

To view Flash streaming in Microsoft edge, turn on Adobe by clicking on the padlock at the top of the window.

===Watching HTML5 streams on the Streamer===

Depending on which browser you are using, you may need to click on the video window to start the stream. Remember that the stream is subject to a 10 - 20 second delay.

Watching the new streamer

2018-06-15T11:44:42Z

M0DHP:

'''Before you can watch any channels on the new BATC site you will probably need to ''enable Flash for the site''.'''
Note - you probably have Flashed already installed and working on other sites but you MUST ENABLE it for every site you go to.

Channels on the streamer can be set to Flash or HTML5 by the owner. Flash has the advantage of minimal delay but each site you go to needs specifically enabling in Chrome, Firefox and Edge browsers. HTML5 works with all modern browsers, including Safari on iPhones and iPads, but is subject to a 10 - 20 second delay.

===Watching Flash streams on the Streamer===

'''If you are using an iPad or iPhone you will NOT be able to watch streams that have been set by the owner to use Flash ''' - you can only watch streams using HTML5 on these devices unless you download a Flash-compatible browser such as Puffin

====Chrome browser====

[[File:chromeflash.jpg|400px]]

If you get a image of white noise when you try to browse a stream, you need to tell the Chrome browser that the new BATC site is safe for the use of Flash. To do this:

# Right click on the word “Secure” in green at the left handside of the address bar.
# Select Site Settings - this will open in a new tab.
# Go down to Flash (6 on the list), click on the arrow on the right handside, and select allow.
# Close the tab which settings has opened in and refresh the original page.

Your browser will remember this setting and you should not have to do it again for the BATC Site.

====Firefox browser====

If you just get a blank screen on a channel in Firefox you will need to enable flash:

* Click on the video window

[[File:fflash1.JPG|600px]]

* Click on the flash symbol in the middle of the window
* A dialogue box will appear at the top of the browser - tick "remember the decision" and then click "Allow"

====Microsoft Edge====

To view Flash streaming in Microsoft edge, turn on Adobe by clicking on the padlock at the top of the window.

===Watching HTML5 streams on the Streamer===

Depending on which browser you are using, you may need to click on the video window to start the stream. Remember that the stream is subject to a 10 - 20 second delay.

Account Dashboard

2018-05-30T22:05:03Z

M0DHP: /* Streaming details */

Once you have logged in as a member ([[Logging in as a member|see this wiki page]]) you can access and change a lot of details on your membership account.

The Account Dashboard which can be found on the left hand menu on the membership summary page (the default page after you log in).

===Update personal details===

[[File:Account dash .JPG|600px]]

In this section you can change your name ,email address and callsign. Note you cannot update your membership number.

===Change your password===

[[File:account dash 2.JPG|600px]]

To manually change your password, follow these steps:

# Enter your current password in the first "Current password" box - you can either cut and paste if it is the auto generated password sent in the email (but be VERY CAREFUL not to copy a space at the beginning or end of the password) or type one in manually.
# Enter the password you want to change it to in the "New Password" box
# Re-enter the new password in the "Confirm new password" box.

When you press "update password" an email will then be sent to your registered email address confirming the change.

===Addresses===

[[File:account dash 3.JPG|600px]]

This section of the Account dashboard allows you to change your home address and any delivery address you have set up - click on the "edit" button and you will be taken to a separate screen where you can change any details.

===Streaming details===
As a member you are automatically allocated a streaming channel on the BATC streaming service. This section of the account dashboard allows you to change various parameters on your channel.

For details on how to set up your streaming details see the [[Configuring your channel|"Configuring your channel"]] wiki page.

If you do not wish to use the streaming service you can ignore this section of your Account Dashboard.

The new streamer

2018-05-30T22:02:15Z

M0DHP:

The new BATC streamer is integrated in to the main BATC website and can be viewed by clicking on "Streamer" on the top navigation menu bar.

*[[Streamer channel list]]

*[[The player page]]

All members are allocated a streaming channel which is configurable from the account dashboard.

The following wiki pages describe how to set up your streaming channel:

*[[Configuring your channel]] Logged in members can configure their channel on the member's account dashboard.

*[[Channel types]] Details on members, repeaters and special event channels and how to get one.

*[[Configuring_your_channel#Stream_input_URL|Encoder settings]] How to set up Portsdown, vMix and Adobe encoders to stream to the new service.

Channels on the streamer can be set to Flash or HTML5 by the owner. Flash has the advantage of minimal delay but will each site you go to needs specifically enabling in Chrome, Firefox and Edge browsers. HTML5 works with all modern browsers, including Safari on iPhones and iPads, but is subject to a 10 - 20 second delay.

'''Before you can watch any channels on the new BATC site you will need to enable Flash for the site.'''

===Watching Flash streams on the Streamer===

Note that '''you will NOT be able to watch streams that have been set by the owner to use Flash when using an iPad or iPhone''' - you can only watch streams using HTML5 on these devices unless you download a Flash-compatible browser such as Puffin

====Chrome browser====

[[File:chromeflash.jpg|400px]]

If you get a image of white noise when you try to browse a stream, you need to tell the Chrome browser that the new BATC site is safe for the use of Flash. To do this:

# Right click on the word “Secure” in green at the left handside of the address bar.
# Select Site Settings - this will open in a new tab.
# Go down to Flash (6 on the list), click on the arrow on the right handside, and select allow.
# Close the tab which settings has opened in and refresh the original page.

Your browser will remember this setting and you should not have to do it again for the BATC Site.

====Firefox browser====

If you just get a blank screen on a channel in Firefox you will need to enable flash:

* Click on the video window

[[File:fflash1.JPG|600px]]

* Click on the flash symbol in the middle of the window
* A dialogue box will appear at the top of the browser - tick "remember the decision" and then click "Allow"

====Microsoft Edge====

To view Flash streaming in Microsoft edge, turn on Adobe by clicking on the padlock at the top of the window.

===Watching HTML5 streams on the Streamer===

Depending on which browser you are using, you may need to click on the video window to start the stream. Remember that the stream is subject to a 10 - 20 second delay.

Configuring your channel

2018-05-29T20:23:54Z

M0DHP: /* Using Adobe Media encoder */

To configure your streaming channel you will need to log in as a member and then go to your account dashboard - see this page for more details [[Account_Dashboard|on your account dashboard]] - scroll down on the page to Streaming details.

[[File:Streaming Details.JPG|600px]]

==Chat nick name==

This field sets your nick name as it appears on any streaming channels you are watching when you are logged in as a member - by default it is set to "first name_call sign" and we would suggest you do not change it from this convention.

==Stream Title==

This field sets the name of your own personal stream that appears on the channel list under the main streamer menu. By default it is set to your callsign.

==Stream output URL==

This is the direct URL you can give to people to watch your stream. You cannot change this URL.

'''Note - the full URL is made up of the https address above the grey box PLUS the text in the grey box (which is the stream name) without any spaces between them.
For example the stream name for the above screen shot is "https://batc.org.uk/live/g8gkq"'''

==Stream input URL==

This is the input URL which must be put into your streaming encoder. You cannot change this URL and should not pass it on to anyone else.

'''Note - the full URL is "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live/callsign-keykey" where callsign is the stream name listed in the first grey box and keykey is the key listed in the second grey box. The stream name and key are separated by a hyphen.'''

===Streaming from the Portsdown===

The Portsdown is already set up to stream to the new streamer. All you need to do is enter the Stream details and

# Log on into Console mode and from the Menu select "3 Output"
# In the Output Parameters Menu select "3 Output Mode"
# In the Output Type menu use the down arrow to highlight "Streamer" and press the space bar and then enter.
# The correct stream URL of rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live should already be entered.
# Press enter to bring up the stream key page
# Enter your stream name (callsign) in lower case, followed by a hyphen and then the 6 character stream key. For example g8gkq-abcxyz
# Press enter to get back to the main menu.
# For a repeater streamer, you should then reboot and the stream will restart correctly configured.

Now, every time that you select "Streamer" either from the console menu or the touchscreen (or autostart into the streamer) you will stream to the new BATC Streamer.

===Using Adobe Media encoder===

For Adobe media encoder, put <code>rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live</code> '''(no / on the end)''' in to the FMS URL box and "callsign-key" in the Stream box.

[[File:adobe stream.JPG|400px]]

===Using Vmix===

For Vmix, put <code>rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live</code> in the "URL" field and the stream name and key separated by a hyphen (for example <code>g8gkq-abcxyz</code>) in the "Stream Name or Key" field.

===Using OBS===

For OBS, put <code>rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live</code> in the "URL" field and the stream name and key separated by a hyphen (for example <code>g8gkq-abcxyz</code>) in the "Stream key" field.

==Stream type==

This selection determines if your stream appears as a member, repeater or special event stream in the streamer main channel list. You cannot change this.

==Stream options==

* "Stream listed" You can decide if your stream is listed in the streamer channel list (by default streams are not listed and this box should be ticked to use the stream).

* The "Chat On" box is ticked by default; if you untick this, there will be no chat window associated with your stream.

* "Guest chat log in" If ticked it means that non-BATC Members will be able to post in your chat window; all they need to do is type "/nick display-name" and their chat will appear labelled with "display-name" or whatever they have entered. It is recommended that you normally leave this box unticked to prevent abuse of the service and limit chat access to logged-in BATC members.

==Streaming type==

The Streaming Type can be set to Flash or HTML5. Flash has the advantage of minimal delay, but is not compatible with the stock browser on some devices. (Flash will need specifically enabling in Chrome, Firefox and Edge browsers). HTML5 works with all modern browsers, including Safari on iPhones and iPads but is subject to a 10 - 20 second delay.

Note that transcoding is done in the server and you do not have to change any settings on your encoder.

==Stream description==

The stream description is the area below the video player and text chat windows on your channel page. You can use this area to describe your channel and give more details of your group or repeater.

[[File:streamer.JPG|400px]]

It is a free text area and can include HTML - we recommend you use an external HTML editor such as https://html-online.com/editor/ to get the correct look and then paste the code into the space.

Please note any embedded content such as maps and time clocks etc from other sites must use an SSL connection and have an https:// address.

Configuring your channel

2018-05-29T20:23:42Z

M0DHP: /* Using Adobe Media encoder */

To configure your streaming channel you will need to log in as a member and then go to your account dashboard - see this page for more details [[Account_Dashboard|on your account dashboard]] - scroll down on the page to Streaming details.

[[File:Streaming Details.JPG|600px]]

==Chat nick name==

This field sets your nick name as it appears on any streaming channels you are watching when you are logged in as a member - by default it is set to "first name_call sign" and we would suggest you do not change it from this convention.

==Stream Title==

This field sets the name of your own personal stream that appears on the channel list under the main streamer menu. By default it is set to your callsign.

==Stream output URL==

This is the direct URL you can give to people to watch your stream. You cannot change this URL.

'''Note - the full URL is made up of the https address above the grey box PLUS the text in the grey box (which is the stream name) without any spaces between them.
For example the stream name for the above screen shot is "https://batc.org.uk/live/g8gkq"'''

==Stream input URL==

This is the input URL which must be put into your streaming encoder. You cannot change this URL and should not pass it on to anyone else.

'''Note - the full URL is "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live/callsign-keykey" where callsign is the stream name listed in the first grey box and keykey is the key listed in the second grey box. The stream name and key are separated by a hyphen.'''

===Streaming from the Portsdown===

The Portsdown is already set up to stream to the new streamer. All you need to do is enter the Stream details and

# Log on into Console mode and from the Menu select "3 Output"
# In the Output Parameters Menu select "3 Output Mode"
# In the Output Type menu use the down arrow to highlight "Streamer" and press the space bar and then enter.
# The correct stream URL of rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live should already be entered.
# Press enter to bring up the stream key page
# Enter your stream name (callsign) in lower case, followed by a hyphen and then the 6 character stream key. For example g8gkq-abcxyz
# Press enter to get back to the main menu.
# For a repeater streamer, you should then reboot and the stream will restart correctly configured.

Now, every time that you select "Streamer" either from the console menu or the touchscreen (or autostart into the streamer) you will stream to the new BATC Streamer.

===Using Adobe Media encoder===

For Adobe media encoder put <code>rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live</code> '''(no / on the end)''' in to the FMS URL box and "callsign-key" in the Stream box.

[[File:adobe stream.JPG|400px]]

===Using Vmix===

For Vmix, put <code>rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live</code> in the "URL" field and the stream name and key separated by a hyphen (for example <code>g8gkq-abcxyz</code>) in the "Stream Name or Key" field.

===Using OBS===

For OBS, put <code>rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live</code> in the "URL" field and the stream name and key separated by a hyphen (for example <code>g8gkq-abcxyz</code>) in the "Stream key" field.

==Stream type==

This selection determines if your stream appears as a member, repeater or special event stream in the streamer main channel list. You cannot change this.

==Stream options==

* "Stream listed" You can decide if your stream is listed in the streamer channel list (by default streams are not listed and this box should be ticked to use the stream).

* The "Chat On" box is ticked by default; if you untick this, there will be no chat window associated with your stream.

* "Guest chat log in" If ticked it means that non-BATC Members will be able to post in your chat window; all they need to do is type "/nick display-name" and their chat will appear labelled with "display-name" or whatever they have entered. It is recommended that you normally leave this box unticked to prevent abuse of the service and limit chat access to logged-in BATC members.

==Streaming type==

The Streaming Type can be set to Flash or HTML5. Flash has the advantage of minimal delay, but is not compatible with the stock browser on some devices. (Flash will need specifically enabling in Chrome, Firefox and Edge browsers). HTML5 works with all modern browsers, including Safari on iPhones and iPads but is subject to a 10 - 20 second delay.

Note that transcoding is done in the server and you do not have to change any settings on your encoder.

==Stream description==

The stream description is the area below the video player and text chat windows on your channel page. You can use this area to describe your channel and give more details of your group or repeater.

[[File:streamer.JPG|400px]]

It is a free text area and can include HTML - we recommend you use an external HTML editor such as https://html-online.com/editor/ to get the correct look and then paste the code into the space.

Please note any embedded content such as maps and time clocks etc from other sites must use an SSL connection and have an https:// address.

Configuring your channel

2018-05-29T20:18:38Z

M0DHP: /* Using Vmix */

To configure your streaming channel you will need to log in as a member and then go to your account dashboard - see this page for more details [[Account_Dashboard|on your account dashboard]] - scroll down on the page to Streaming details.

[[File:Streaming Details.JPG|600px]]

==Chat nick name==

This field sets your nick name as it appears on any streaming channels you are watching when you are logged in as a member - by default it is set to "first name_call sign" and we would suggest you do not change it from this convention.

==Stream Title==

This field sets the name of your own personal stream that appears on the channel list under the main streamer menu. By default it is set to your callsign.

==Stream output URL==

This is the direct URL you can give to people to watch your stream. You cannot change this URL.

'''Note - the full URL is made up of the https address above the grey box PLUS the text in the grey box (which is the stream name) without any spaces between them.
For example the stream name for the above screen shot is "https://batc.org.uk/live/g8gkq"'''

==Stream input URL==

This is the input URL which must be put into your streaming encoder. You cannot change this URL and should not pass it on to anyone else.

'''Note - the full URL is "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live/callsign-keykey" where callsign is the stream name listed in the first grey box and keykey is the key listed in the second grey box. The stream name and key are separated by a hyphen.'''

===Streaming from the Portsdown===

The Portsdown is already set up to stream to the new streamer. All you need to do is enter the Stream details and

# Log on into Console mode and from the Menu select "3 Output"
# In the Output Parameters Menu select "3 Output Mode"
# In the Output Type menu use the down arrow to highlight "Streamer" and press the space bar and then enter.
# The correct stream URL of rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live should already be entered.
# Press enter to bring up the stream key page
# Enter your stream name (callsign) in lower case, followed by a hyphen and then the 6 character stream key. For example g8gkq-abcxyz
# Press enter to get back to the main menu.
# For a repeater streamer, you should then reboot and the stream will restart correctly configured.

Now, every time that you select "Streamer" either from the console menu or the touchscreen (or autostart into the streamer) you will stream to the new BATC Streamer.

===Using Adobe Media encoder===

For Adobe media encoder put "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live" '''(no / on the end)''' in to the FMS URL box and "callsign-key" in the Stream box.

[[File:adobe stream.JPG|400px]]

===Using Vmix===

For Vmix, put <code>rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live</code> in the "URL" field and the stream name and key separated by a hyphen (for example <code>g8gkq-abcxyz</code>) in the "Stream Name or Key" field.

===Using OBS===

For OBS, put <code>rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live</code> in the "URL" field and the stream name and key separated by a hyphen (for example <code>g8gkq-abcxyz</code>) in the "Stream key" field.

==Stream type==

This selection determines if your stream appears as a member, repeater or special event stream in the streamer main channel list. You cannot change this.

==Stream options==

* "Stream listed" You can decide if your stream is listed in the streamer channel list (by default streams are not listed and this box should be ticked to use the stream).

* The "Chat On" box is ticked by default; if you untick this, there will be no chat window associated with your stream.

* "Guest chat log in" If ticked it means that non-BATC Members will be able to post in your chat window; all they need to do is type "/nick display-name" and their chat will appear labelled with "display-name" or whatever they have entered. It is recommended that you normally leave this box unticked to prevent abuse of the service and limit chat access to logged-in BATC members.

==Streaming type==

The Streaming Type can be set to Flash or HTML5. Flash has the advantage of minimal delay, but is not compatible with the stock browser on some devices. (Flash will need specifically enabling in Chrome, Firefox and Edge browsers). HTML5 works with all modern browsers, including Safari on iPhones and iPads but is subject to a 10 - 20 second delay.

Note that transcoding is done in the server and you do not have to change any settings on your encoder.

==Stream description==

The stream description is the area below the video player and text chat windows on your channel page. You can use this area to describe your channel and give more details of your group or repeater.

[[File:streamer.JPG|400px]]

It is a free text area and can include HTML - we recommend you use an external HTML editor such as https://html-online.com/editor/ to get the correct look and then paste the code into the space.

Please note any embedded content such as maps and time clocks etc from other sites must use an SSL connection and have an https:// address.

Configuring your channel

2018-05-29T20:17:59Z

M0DHP: /* Using OBS */

To configure your streaming channel you will need to log in as a member and then go to your account dashboard - see this page for more details [[Account_Dashboard|on your account dashboard]] - scroll down on the page to Streaming details.

[[File:Streaming Details.JPG|600px]]

==Chat nick name==

This field sets your nick name as it appears on any streaming channels you are watching when you are logged in as a member - by default it is set to "first name_call sign" and we would suggest you do not change it from this convention.

==Stream Title==

This field sets the name of your own personal stream that appears on the channel list under the main streamer menu. By default it is set to your callsign.

==Stream output URL==

This is the direct URL you can give to people to watch your stream. You cannot change this URL.

'''Note - the full URL is made up of the https address above the grey box PLUS the text in the grey box (which is the stream name) without any spaces between them.
For example the stream name for the above screen shot is "https://batc.org.uk/live/g8gkq"'''

==Stream input URL==

This is the input URL which must be put into your streaming encoder. You cannot change this URL and should not pass it on to anyone else.

'''Note - the full URL is "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live/callsign-keykey" where callsign is the stream name listed in the first grey box and keykey is the key listed in the second grey box. The stream name and key are separated by a hyphen.'''

===Streaming from the Portsdown===

The Portsdown is already set up to stream to the new streamer. All you need to do is enter the Stream details and

# Log on into Console mode and from the Menu select "3 Output"
# In the Output Parameters Menu select "3 Output Mode"
# In the Output Type menu use the down arrow to highlight "Streamer" and press the space bar and then enter.
# The correct stream URL of rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live should already be entered.
# Press enter to bring up the stream key page
# Enter your stream name (callsign) in lower case, followed by a hyphen and then the 6 character stream key. For example g8gkq-abcxyz
# Press enter to get back to the main menu.
# For a repeater streamer, you should then reboot and the stream will restart correctly configured.

Now, every time that you select "Streamer" either from the console menu or the touchscreen (or autostart into the streamer) you will stream to the new BATC Streamer.

===Using Adobe Media encoder===

For Adobe media encoder put "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live" '''(no / on the end)''' in to the FMS URL box and "callsign-key" in the Stream box.

[[File:adobe stream.JPG|400px]]

===Using Vmix===

For Vmix, put "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live" in the "URL" field and the stream name and key separated by a hyphen (for example "g8gkq-abcxyz") in the "Stream Name or Key" field.

===Using OBS===

For OBS, put <code>rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live</code> in the "URL" field and the stream name and key separated by a hyphen (for example <code>g8gkq-abcxyz</code>) in the "Stream key" field.

==Stream type==

This selection determines if your stream appears as a member, repeater or special event stream in the streamer main channel list. You cannot change this.

==Stream options==

* "Stream listed" You can decide if your stream is listed in the streamer channel list (by default streams are not listed and this box should be ticked to use the stream).

* The "Chat On" box is ticked by default; if you untick this, there will be no chat window associated with your stream.

* "Guest chat log in" If ticked it means that non-BATC Members will be able to post in your chat window; all they need to do is type "/nick display-name" and their chat will appear labelled with "display-name" or whatever they have entered. It is recommended that you normally leave this box unticked to prevent abuse of the service and limit chat access to logged-in BATC members.

==Streaming type==

The Streaming Type can be set to Flash or HTML5. Flash has the advantage of minimal delay, but is not compatible with the stock browser on some devices. (Flash will need specifically enabling in Chrome, Firefox and Edge browsers). HTML5 works with all modern browsers, including Safari on iPhones and iPads but is subject to a 10 - 20 second delay.

Note that transcoding is done in the server and you do not have to change any settings on your encoder.

==Stream description==

The stream description is the area below the video player and text chat windows on your channel page. You can use this area to describe your channel and give more details of your group or repeater.

[[File:streamer.JPG|400px]]

It is a free text area and can include HTML - we recommend you use an external HTML editor such as https://html-online.com/editor/ to get the correct look and then paste the code into the space.

Please note any embedded content such as maps and time clocks etc from other sites must use an SSL connection and have an https:// address.

Configuring your channel

2018-05-29T20:17:36Z

M0DHP: /* Using OBS */

To configure your streaming channel you will need to log in as a member and then go to your account dashboard - see this page for more details [[Account_Dashboard|on your account dashboard]] - scroll down on the page to Streaming details.

[[File:Streaming Details.JPG|600px]]

==Chat nick name==

This field sets your nick name as it appears on any streaming channels you are watching when you are logged in as a member - by default it is set to "first name_call sign" and we would suggest you do not change it from this convention.

==Stream Title==

This field sets the name of your own personal stream that appears on the channel list under the main streamer menu. By default it is set to your callsign.

==Stream output URL==

This is the direct URL you can give to people to watch your stream. You cannot change this URL.

'''Note - the full URL is made up of the https address above the grey box PLUS the text in the grey box (which is the stream name) without any spaces between them.
For example the stream name for the above screen shot is "https://batc.org.uk/live/g8gkq"'''

==Stream input URL==

This is the input URL which must be put into your streaming encoder. You cannot change this URL and should not pass it on to anyone else.

'''Note - the full URL is "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live/callsign-keykey" where callsign is the stream name listed in the first grey box and keykey is the key listed in the second grey box. The stream name and key are separated by a hyphen.'''

===Streaming from the Portsdown===

The Portsdown is already set up to stream to the new streamer. All you need to do is enter the Stream details and

# Log on into Console mode and from the Menu select "3 Output"
# In the Output Parameters Menu select "3 Output Mode"
# In the Output Type menu use the down arrow to highlight "Streamer" and press the space bar and then enter.
# The correct stream URL of rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live should already be entered.
# Press enter to bring up the stream key page
# Enter your stream name (callsign) in lower case, followed by a hyphen and then the 6 character stream key. For example g8gkq-abcxyz
# Press enter to get back to the main menu.
# For a repeater streamer, you should then reboot and the stream will restart correctly configured.

Now, every time that you select "Streamer" either from the console menu or the touchscreen (or autostart into the streamer) you will stream to the new BATC Streamer.

===Using Adobe Media encoder===

For Adobe media encoder put "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live" '''(no / on the end)''' in to the FMS URL box and "callsign-key" in the Stream box.

[[File:adobe stream.JPG|400px]]

===Using Vmix===

For Vmix, put "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live" in the "URL" field and the stream name and key separated by a hyphen (for example "g8gkq-abcxyz") in the "Stream Name or Key" field.

===Using OBS===

For OBS, put <code>rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live</code> in the "URL" field and the stream name and key separated by a hyphen (for example "g8gkq-abcxyz") in the "Stream key" field.

==Stream type==

This selection determines if your stream appears as a member, repeater or special event stream in the streamer main channel list. You cannot change this.

==Stream options==

* "Stream listed" You can decide if your stream is listed in the streamer channel list (by default streams are not listed and this box should be ticked to use the stream).

* The "Chat On" box is ticked by default; if you untick this, there will be no chat window associated with your stream.

* "Guest chat log in" If ticked it means that non-BATC Members will be able to post in your chat window; all they need to do is type "/nick display-name" and their chat will appear labelled with "display-name" or whatever they have entered. It is recommended that you normally leave this box unticked to prevent abuse of the service and limit chat access to logged-in BATC members.

==Streaming type==

The Streaming Type can be set to Flash or HTML5. Flash has the advantage of minimal delay, but is not compatible with the stock browser on some devices. (Flash will need specifically enabling in Chrome, Firefox and Edge browsers). HTML5 works with all modern browsers, including Safari on iPhones and iPads but is subject to a 10 - 20 second delay.

Note that transcoding is done in the server and you do not have to change any settings on your encoder.

==Stream description==

The stream description is the area below the video player and text chat windows on your channel page. You can use this area to describe your channel and give more details of your group or repeater.

[[File:streamer.JPG|400px]]

It is a free text area and can include HTML - we recommend you use an external HTML editor such as https://html-online.com/editor/ to get the correct look and then paste the code into the space.

Please note any embedded content such as maps and time clocks etc from other sites must use an SSL connection and have an https:// address.

Configuring your channel

2018-05-29T20:14:25Z

M0DHP: /* Using OBS */

To configure your streaming channel you will need to log in as a member and then go to your account dashboard - see this page for more details [[Account_Dashboard|on your account dashboard]] - scroll down on the page to Streaming details.

[[File:Streaming Details.JPG|600px]]

==Chat nick name==

This field sets your nick name as it appears on any streaming channels you are watching when you are logged in as a member - by default it is set to "first name_call sign" and we would suggest you do not change it from this convention.

==Stream Title==

This field sets the name of your own personal stream that appears on the channel list under the main streamer menu. By default it is set to your callsign.

==Stream output URL==

This is the direct URL you can give to people to watch your stream. You cannot change this URL.

'''Note - the full URL is made up of the https address above the grey box PLUS the text in the grey box (which is the stream name) without any spaces between them.
For example the stream name for the above screen shot is "https://batc.org.uk/live/g8gkq"'''

==Stream input URL==

This is the input URL which must be put into your streaming encoder. You cannot change this URL and should not pass it on to anyone else.

'''Note - the full URL is "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live/callsign-keykey" where callsign is the stream name listed in the first grey box and keykey is the key listed in the second grey box. The stream name and key are separated by a hyphen.'''

===Streaming from the Portsdown===

The Portsdown is already set up to stream to the new streamer. All you need to do is enter the Stream details and

# Log on into Console mode and from the Menu select "3 Output"
# In the Output Parameters Menu select "3 Output Mode"
# In the Output Type menu use the down arrow to highlight "Streamer" and press the space bar and then enter.
# The correct stream URL of rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live should already be entered.
# Press enter to bring up the stream key page
# Enter your stream name (callsign) in lower case, followed by a hyphen and then the 6 character stream key. For example g8gkq-abcxyz
# Press enter to get back to the main menu.
# For a repeater streamer, you should then reboot and the stream will restart correctly configured.

Now, every time that you select "Streamer" either from the console menu or the touchscreen (or autostart into the streamer) you will stream to the new BATC Streamer.

===Using Adobe Media encoder===

For Adobe media encoder put "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live" '''(no / on the end)''' in to the FMS URL box and "callsign-key" in the Stream box.

[[File:adobe stream.JPG|400px]]

===Using Vmix===

For Vmix, put "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live" in the "URL" field and the stream name and key separated by a hyphen (for example "g8gkq-abcxyz") in the "Stream Name or Key" field.

===Using OBS===

For OBS, put "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live" in the "URL" field and the stream name and key separated by a hyphen (for example "g8gkq-abcxyz") in the "Stream key" field.

==Stream type==

This selection determines if your stream appears as a member, repeater or special event stream in the streamer main channel list. You cannot change this.

==Stream options==

* "Stream listed" You can decide if your stream is listed in the streamer channel list (by default streams are not listed and this box should be ticked to use the stream).

* The "Chat On" box is ticked by default; if you untick this, there will be no chat window associated with your stream.

* "Guest chat log in" If ticked it means that non-BATC Members will be able to post in your chat window; all they need to do is type "/nick display-name" and their chat will appear labelled with "display-name" or whatever they have entered. It is recommended that you normally leave this box unticked to prevent abuse of the service and limit chat access to logged-in BATC members.

==Streaming type==

The Streaming Type can be set to Flash or HTML5. Flash has the advantage of minimal delay, but is not compatible with the stock browser on some devices. (Flash will need specifically enabling in Chrome, Firefox and Edge browsers). HTML5 works with all modern browsers, including Safari on iPhones and iPads but is subject to a 10 - 20 second delay.

Note that transcoding is done in the server and you do not have to change any settings on your encoder.

==Stream description==

The stream description is the area below the video player and text chat windows on your channel page. You can use this area to describe your channel and give more details of your group or repeater.

[[File:streamer.JPG|400px]]

It is a free text area and can include HTML - we recommend you use an external HTML editor such as https://html-online.com/editor/ to get the correct look and then paste the code into the space.

Please note any embedded content such as maps and time clocks etc from other sites must use an SSL connection and have an https:// address.

Configuring your channel

2018-05-28T17:40:05Z

M0DHP:

To configure your streaming channel you will need to log in as a member and then go to your account dashboard - see this page for more details [[Account_Dashboard|on your account dashboard]] - scroll down on the page to Streaming details.

[[File:Streaming Details.JPG|600px]]

==Chat nick name==

This field sets your nick name as it appears on any streaming channels you are watching when you are logged in as a member - by default it is set to "first name_call sign" and we would suggest you do not change it from this convention.

==Stream Title==

This field sets the name of your own personal stream that appears on the channel list under the main streamer menu. By default it is set to your callsign.

==Stream output URL==

This is the direct URL you can give to people to watch your stream. You cannot change this URL.

'''Note - the full URL is made up of the https address above the grey box PLUS the text in the grey box (which is the stream name) without any spaces between them.
For example the stream name for the above screen shot is "https://batc.org.uk/live/g8gkq"'''

==Stream input URL==

This is the input URL which must be put into your streaming encoder. You cannot change this URL and should not pass it on to anyone else.

'''Note - the full URL is "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live/xxxxx-yyyyy" where xxxx is the stream name listed in the first grey box and yyyy is the key listed in the second grey box. The stream name and key are separated by a hyphen.'''

===Streaming from the Portsdown===

The Portsdown is already set up to stream to the new streamer. All you need to do is enter the Stream details and

# Log on into Console mode and from the Menu select "3 Output"
# In the Output Parameters Menu select "3 Output Mode"
# In the Output Type menu use the down arrow to highlight "Streamer" and press the space bar and then enter.
# The correct stream URL of rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live should already be entered.
# Press enter to bring up the stream key page
# Enter your stream name (callsign) in lower case, followed by a hyphen and then the 6 character stream key. For example g8gkq-abcxyz
# Press enter to get back to the main menu.

Now, every time that you select "Streamer" either from the console menu or the touchscreen (or autostart into the streamer) you will stream to the new BATC Streamer.

===Using Adobe Media encoder===

For Adobe media encoder put the "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live/" string above the grey box in to... and the text "g8gkq-abcxyz" in the grey box in to...

===Using Vmix===

For Vmix, put "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live/" in the "URL" field and the stream name and key separated by a hyphen (for example "g8gkq-abcxyz") in the "Stream Name or Key" field.

===Using OBS===

For OBS put the "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live/" string above the grey box in to... and the text "g8gkq-abcxyz" in the grey box in to...

==Stream type==

This selection determines if your stream appears as a member, repeater or special event stream in the streamer main channel list. You cannot change this.

==Stream options==

* "Stream listed" You can decide if your stream is listed in the streamer channel list (by default streams are not listed and this box should be ticked to use the stream).

* The "Chat On" box is ticked by default; if you untick this, there will be no chat window associated with your stream.

* "Guest chat log in" If ticked it means that non-BATC Members will be able to post in your chat window; all they need to do is type "/nick display-name" and their chat will appear labelled with "display-name" or whatever they have entered. It is recommended that you normally leave this box unticked to prevent abuse of the service and limit chat access to logged-in BATC members.

==Streaming type==

The Streaming Type can be set to Flash or HTML5. Flash has the advantage of minimal delay, but is not compatible with the stock browser on some devices. (Flash will need specifically enabling in Chrome, Firefox and Edge browsers). HTML5 works with all modern browsers, including Safari on iPhones and iPads but is subject to a 10 - 20 second delay.

Note that transcoding is done in the server and you do not have to change any settings on your encoder.

==Stream description==

The stream description is the area below the video player and text chat windows on your channel page. You can use this area to describe your channel and give more details of your group or repeater.

[[File:streamer.JPG|400px]]

It is a free text area and can include HTML - we recommend you use an external HTML editor such as https://html-online.com/editor/ to get the correct look and then paste the code into the space.

Please note any embedded content such as maps and time clocks etc from other sites must use an SSL connection and have an https:// address.

Configuring your channel

2018-05-28T17:39:40Z

M0DHP: /* Streaming type */

* To configure your streaming channel you will need to log in as a member and then go to your account dashboard - see this page for more details [[Account_Dashboard|on your account dashboard]] - scroll down on the page to Streaming details.

[[File:Streaming Details.JPG|600px]]

==Chat nick name==

This field sets your nick name as it appears on any streaming channels you are watching when you are logged in as a member - by default it is set to "first name_call sign" and we would suggest you do not change it from this convention.

==Stream Title==

This field sets the name of your own personal stream that appears on the channel list under the main streamer menu. By default it is set to your callsign.

==Stream output URL==

This is the direct URL you can give to people to watch your stream. You cannot change this URL.

'''Note - the full URL is made up of the https address above the grey box PLUS the text in the grey box (which is the stream name) without any spaces between them.
For example the stream name for the above screen shot is "https://batc.org.uk/live/g8gkq"'''

==Stream input URL==

This is the input URL which must be put into your streaming encoder. You cannot change this URL and should not pass it on to anyone else.

'''Note - the full URL is "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live/xxxxx-yyyyy" where xxxx is the stream name listed in the first grey box and yyyy is the key listed in the second grey box. The stream name and key are separated by a hyphen.'''

===Streaming from the Portsdown===

The Portsdown is already set up to stream to the new streamer. All you need to do is enter the Stream details and

# Log on into Console mode and from the Menu select "3 Output"
# In the Output Parameters Menu select "3 Output Mode"
# In the Output Type menu use the down arrow to highlight "Streamer" and press the space bar and then enter.
# The correct stream URL of rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live should already be entered.
# Press enter to bring up the stream key page
# Enter your stream name (callsign) in lower case, followed by a hyphen and then the 6 character stream key. For example g8gkq-abcxyz
# Press enter to get back to the main menu.

Now, every time that you select "Streamer" either from the console menu or the touchscreen (or autostart into the streamer) you will stream to the new BATC Streamer.

===Using Adobe Media encoder===

For Adobe media encoder put the "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live/" string above the grey box in to... and the text "g8gkq-abcxyz" in the grey box in to...

===Using Vmix===

For Vmix, put "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live/" in the "URL" field and the stream name and key separated by a hyphen (for example "g8gkq-abcxyz") in the "Stream Name or Key" field.

===Using OBS===

For OBS put the "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live/" string above the grey box in to... and the text "g8gkq-abcxyz" in the grey box in to...

==Stream type==

This selection determines if your stream appears as a member, repeater or special event stream in the streamer main channel list. You cannot change this.

==Stream options==

* "Stream listed" You can decide if your stream is listed in the streamer channel list (by default streams are not listed and this box should be ticked to use the stream).

* The "Chat On" box is ticked by default; if you untick this, there will be no chat window associated with your stream.

* "Guest chat log in" If ticked it means that non-BATC Members will be able to post in your chat window; all they need to do is type "/nick display-name" and their chat will appear labelled with "display-name" or whatever they have entered. It is recommended that you normally leave this box unticked to prevent abuse of the service and limit chat access to logged-in BATC members.

==Streaming type==

The Streaming Type can be set to Flash or HTML5. Flash has the advantage of minimal delay, but is not compatible with the stock browser on some devices. (Flash will need specifically enabling in Chrome, Firefox and Edge browsers). HTML5 works with all modern browsers, including Safari on iPhones and iPads but is subject to a 10 - 20 second delay.

Note that transcoding is done in the server and you do not have to change any settings on your encoder.

==Stream description==

The stream description is the area below the video player and text chat windows on your channel page. You can use this area to describe your channel and give more details of your group or repeater.

[[File:streamer.JPG|400px]]

It is a free text area and can include HTML - we recommend you use an external HTML editor such as https://html-online.com/editor/ to get the correct look and then paste the code into the space.

Please note any embedded content such as maps and time clocks etc from other sites must use an SSL connection and have an https:// address.

The new streamer

2018-05-28T15:18:01Z

M0DHP:

The new BATC streamer is integrated in to the main BATC website and can be viewed by clicking on "Streamer" on the top navigation menu bar.

*[[Streamer channel list]]

*[[The player page]]

All members are allocated a streaming channel which is configurable from the account dashboard.

Channels on the streamer can be set to Flash or HTML5 by the owner. Flash has the advantage of minimal delay but will need specifically enabling in Chrome, Firefox and Edge browsers before you can watch the channel. HTML5 works with all modern browsers, including Safari on iPhones and iPads but is subject to a 10 - 20 second delay.

The following wiki pages describe how to set up your streaming channel:

*[[Configuring your channel]] Logged in members can configure their channel on the member's account dashboard.

*[[Channel types]] Details on members, repeaters and special event channels and how to get one.

*[[Encoder settings]] How to set up Portsdown, vMix and Adobe encoders to stream to the new service.

===Watching Flash streams on the Streamer===

Note that '''you will NOT be able to watch streams that have been set by the owner to use Flash when using an iPad or iPhone''' - you can only watch streams using HTML5 on these devices unless you download a Flash-compatible browser such as Puffin

====Chrome browser====

[[File:chromeflash.jpg|400px]]

If you get a image of white noise when you try to browse a stream, you need to tell the Chrome browser that the new BATC site is safe for the use of Flash. To do this:

# Right click on the word “Secure” in green at the left handside of the address bar.
# Select Site Settings - this will open in a new tab.
# Go down to Flash (6 on the list), click on the arrow on the right handside, and select allow.
# Close the tab which settings has opened in and refresh the original page.

Your browser will remember this setting and you should not have to do it again for the BATC Site.

====Firefox browser====

If you just get a blank screen on a channel in Firefox you will need to enable flash:

* Click on the video window

[[File:fflash1.JPG|600px]]

* Click on the flash symbol in the middle of the window
* A dialogue box will appear at the top of the browser - tick "remember the decision" and then click "Allow"

===Watching HTML5 streams on the Streamer===

Depending on which browser you are using, you may need to click on the video window to start the stream. Remember that the stream is subject to a 10 - 20 second delay.

The new streamer

2018-05-28T15:13:52Z

M0DHP:

The new BATC streamer is integrated in to the main BATC website and can be viewed by clicking on "Streamer" on the top navigation menu bar.

*[[Streamer channel list]]

*[[The player page]]

All members are allocated a streaming channel which is configurable from the account dashboard - the following wiki pages describe how to set your streaming channel up.

*[[Configuring your channel]] Logged in members can configure their channel on the member's account dashboard.

*[[Channel types]] Details on members, repeaters and special event channels and how to get one.

*[[Encoder settings]] How to set up Portsdown, vMix and Adobe encoders to stream to the new service.

===Watching Flash streams on the Streamer===

Channels on the streamer can be set to Flash or HTML5 by the owner. Flash has the advantage of minimal delay but will need specifically enabling in Chrome, Firefox and Edge browsers before you can watch the channel. HTML5 works with all modern browsers, including Safari on iPhones and iPads but is subject to a 10 - 20 second delay.

Note that '''you will NOT be able to watch streams that have been set by the owner to use Flash when using an iPad or iPhone''' - you can only watch streams using HTML5 on these devices unless you download a Flash-compatible browser such as Puffin

====Chrome browser====

[[File:chromeflash.jpg|400px]]

If you get a image of white noise when you try to browse a stream, you need to tell the Chrome browser that the new BATC site is safe for the use of Flash. To do this:

# Right click on the word “Secure” in green at the left handside of the address bar.
# Select Site Settings - this will open in a new tab.
# Go down to Flash (6 on the list), click on the arrow on the right handside, and select allow.
# Close the tab which settings has opened in and refresh the original page.

Your browser will remember this setting and you should not have to do it again for the BATC Site.

====Firefox browser====

If you just get a blank screen on a channel in Firefox you will need to enable flash:

* Click on the video window

[[File:fflash1.JPG|600px]]

* Click on the flash symbol in the middle of the window
* A dialogue box will appear at the top of the browser - tick "remember the decision" and then click "Allow"

===Watching HTML5 streams on the Streamer===

Depending on which browser you are using, you may need to click on the video window to see the stream. Remember that the stream is subject to a 10 - 20 second delay.

The new streamer

2018-05-28T15:12:30Z

M0DHP:

The new BATC streamer is integrated in to the main BATC website and can be viewed by clicking on "Streamer" on the top navigation menu bar.

*[[Streamer channel list]]

*[[The player page]]

All members are allocated a streaming channel which is configurable from the account dashboard - the following wiki pages describe how to set your streaming channel up.

*[[Configuring your channel]] Logged in members can configure their channel on the member's account dashboard.

*[[Channel types]] Details on members, repeaters and special event channels and how to get one.

*[[Encoder settings]] How to set up Portsdown, VMIX and Adobe encoders to stream to the new service.

===Watching Flash streams on the Streamer===

Channels on the streamer can be set to Flash or HTML5 by the owner. Flash has the advantage of minimal delay but will need specifically enabling in Chrome, Firefox and Edge browsers before you can watch the channel. HTML5 works with all modern browsers, including Safari on iPhones and iPads but is subject to a 10 - 20 second delay.

Note that '''you will NOT be able to watch streams that have been set by the owner to use Flash when using an iPad or iPhone''' - you can only watch streams using HTML5 on these devices unless you download a Flash-compatible browser such as Puffin

====Chrome browser====

[[File:chromeflash.jpg|400px]]

If you get a image of white noise when you try to browse a stream, you need to tell the Chrome browser that the new BATC site is safe for the use of Flash. To do this:

# Right click on the word “Secure” in green at the left handside of the address bar.
# Select Site Settings - this will open in a new tab.
# Go down to Flash (6 on the list), click on the arrow on the right handside, and select allow.
# Close the tab which settings has opened in and refresh the original page.

Your browser will remember this setting and you should not have to do it again for the BATC Site.

====Firefox browser====

If you just get a blank screen on a channel in Firefox you will need to enable flash:

* Click on the video window

[[File:fflash1.JPG|600px]]

* Click on the flash symbol in the middle of the window
* A dialogue box will appear at the top of the browser - tick "remember the decision" and then click "Allow"

===Watching HTML5 streams on the Streamer===

Depending on which browser you are using, you may need to click on the video window to see the stream. Remember that the stream is subject to a 10 - 20 second delay.

The new streamer

2018-05-28T15:09:37Z

M0DHP: /* Watching Flash streams on the Streamer */

The new BATC streamer is integrated in to the main BATC website and can be viewed by clicking on "Streamer" on the top navigation menu bar.

*[[Streamer channel list]]

*[[The player page]]

All members are allocated a streaming channel which is configurable from the account dashboard - the following wiki pages describe how to set your streaming channel up.

*[[Configuring your channel]] Logged in members can configure their channel on the member's account dashboard.

*[[Channel types]] Details on members, repeaters and special event channels and how to get one.

*[[Encoder settings]] How to set up Portsdown, VMIX and Adobe encoders to stream to the new service.

===Watching Flash streams on the Streamer===

Channels on the streamer can be set to Flash or HTML5 by the owner. Flash has the advantage of minimal delay but will need specifically enabling in Chrome, Firefox and Edge browsers before you can watch the channel. HTML5 works with all modern browsers, including Safari on iPhones and iPads but is subject to a 10 - 20 second delay.

Note that '''you will NOT be able to watch streams that have been set by the owner to use Flash when using an iPad or iPhone''' - you can only watch streams using HTML5 on these devices unless you download a Flash-compatible browser such as Puffin

====Chrome browser====

[[File:chromeflash.jpg|400px]]

If you get a image of white noise when you try to browse a stream, you need to tell the Chrome browser that the new BATC site is safe for the use of Flash. To do this:

# Right click on the word “Secure” in green at the left handside of the address bar.
# Select Site Settings - this will open in a new tab.
# Go down to Flash (6 on the list), click on the arrow on the right handside, and select allow.
# Close the tab which settings has opened in and refresh the original page.

Your browser will remember this setting and you should not have to do it again for the BATC Site.

====Firefox browser====

If you just get a blank screen on a channel in Firefox you will need to enable flash:

* Click on the video window

[[File:fflash1.JPG|600px]]

* Click on the flash symbol in the middle of the window
* A dialogue box will appear at the top of the browser - tick "remember the decision" and then click "Allow"

The new streamer

2018-05-28T15:08:51Z

M0DHP: /* Watching Flash streams on the Streamer */

The new BATC streamer is integrated in to the main BATC website and can be viewed by clicking on "Streamer" on the top navigation menu bar.

*[[Streamer channel list]]

*[[The player page]]

All members are allocated a streaming channel which is configurable from the account dashboard - the following wiki pages describe how to set your streaming channel up.

*[[Configuring your channel]] Logged in members can configure their channel on the member's account dashboard.

*[[Channel types]] Details on members, repeaters and special event channels and how to get one.

*[[Encoder settings]] How to set up Portsdown, VMIX and Adobe encoders to stream to the new service.

===Watching Flash streams on the Streamer===

Channels on the streamer can be set to Flash or HTML5 by the owner. Flash has the advantage of minimal delay but will need specifically enabling in Chrome, Firefox and Edge browsers before you can watch the channel. HTML5 works with all modern browsers, including iphones and ipads but is subject to a 10 - 20 second delay.

Note that '''you will NOT be able to watch streams that have been set by the owner to use Flash when using an iPad or iPhone''' - you can only watch streams using HTML5 on these devices unless you download a Flash-compatible browser such as Puffin

====Chrome browser====

[[File:chromeflash.jpg|400px]]

If you get a image of white noise when you try to browse a stream, you need to tell the Chrome browser that the new BATC site is safe for the use of Flash. To do this:

# Right click on the word “Secure” in green at the left handside of the address bar.
# Select Site Settings - this will open in a new tab.
# Go down to Flash (6 on the list), click on the arrow on the right handside, and select allow.
# Close the tab which settings has opened in and refresh the original page.

Your browser will remember this setting and you should not have to do it again for the BATC Site.

====Firefox browser====

If you just get a blank screen on a channel in Firefox you will need to enable flash:

* Click on the video window

[[File:fflash1.JPG|600px]]

* Click on the flash symbol in the middle of the window
* A dialogue box will appear at the top of the browser - tick "remember the decision" and then click "Allow"

The new streamer

2018-05-28T15:08:30Z

M0DHP: /* Watching Flash streams on the Streamer */

The new BATC streamer is integrated in to the main BATC website and can be viewed by clicking on "Streamer" on the top navigation menu bar.

*[[Streamer channel list]]

*[[The player page]]

All members are allocated a streaming channel which is configurable from the account dashboard - the following wiki pages describe how to set your streaming channel up.

*[[Configuring your channel]] Logged in members can configure their channel on the member's account dashboard.

*[[Channel types]] Details on members, repeaters and special event channels and how to get one.

*[[Encoder settings]] How to set up Portsdown, VMIX and Adobe encoders to stream to the new service.

===Watching Flash streams on the Streamer===

Channels on the streamer can be set to Flash or HTML5 by the owner. Flash has the advantage of minimal delay but will need specifically enabling in Chrome, Firefox and Edge browsers before you can watch the channel. HTML5 works with all modern browsers, including iphones and ipads but is subject to a 10 - 20 second delay.

Note that '''you will NOT be able to watch streams that have been set by the owner to use Flash when using an iPad or iPhone''' - you can only watch streams using HTML5 on these devices unless you download a flash compatible browser such as Puffin

====Chrome browser====

[[File:chromeflash.jpg|400px]]

If you get a image of white noise when you try to browse a stream, you need to tell the Chrome browser that the new BATC site is safe for the use of Flash. To do this:

# Right click on the word “Secure” in green at the left handside of the address bar.
# Select Site Settings - this will open in a new tab.
# Go down to Flash (6 on the list), click on the arrow on the right handside, and select allow.
# Close the tab which settings has opened in and refresh the original page.

Your browser will remember this setting and you should not have to do it again for the BATC Site.

====Firefox browser====

If you just get a blank screen on a channel in Firefox you will need to enable flash:

* Click on the video window

[[File:fflash1.JPG|600px]]

* Click on the flash symbol in the middle of the window
* A dialogue box will appear at the top of the browser - tick "remember the decision" and then click "Allow"

Configuring your channel

2018-05-28T13:54:26Z

M0DHP: /* Stream output URL */

* To configure your streaming channel you will need to log in as a member and then go to your account dashboard - see this page for more details [[Account_Dashboard|on your account dashboard]] - scroll down on the page to Streaming details.

[[File:Streaming Details.JPG|600px]]

==Chat nick name==

This field sets your nick name as it appears on any streaming channels you are watching when you are logged in as a member - by default it is set to "first name_call sign" and we would suggest you do not change it from this convention.

==Stream Title==

This field sets the name of your own personal stream that appears on the channel list under the main streamer menu. By default it is set to your callsign.

==Stream output URL==

This is the direct URL you can give to people to watch your stream. You cannot change this URL.

'''Note - the full URL is made up of the https address above the grey box PLUS the text in the grey box (which is the stream name) without any spaces between them.
For example the stream name for the above screen shot is "https://batc.org.uk/live/g8gkq"'''

==Stream input URL==

This is the input URL which must be put into your streaming encoder. You cannot change this URL and should not pass it on to anyone else.

'''Note - the full URL is "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live/xxxxx-yyyyy" where xxxx is the stream name listed in the first grey box and yyyy is the key listed in the second grey box. The stream name and key are separated by a hyphen.'''

===Streaming from the Portsdown===

The Portsdown is already set up to stream to the new streamer. All you need to do is enter the Stream details and

# Log on into Console mode and from the Menu select "3 Output"
# In the Output Parameters Menu select "3 Output Mode"
# In the Output Type menu use the down arrow to highlight "Streamer" and press the space bar and then enter.
# The correct stream URL of rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live should already be entered.
# Press enter to bring up the stream key page
# Enter your stream name (callsign) in lower case, followed by a hyphen and then the 6 character stream key. For example g8gkq-abcxyz
# Press enter to get back to the main menu.

Now, every time that you select "Streamer" either from the console menu or the touchscreen (or autostart into the streamer) you will stream to the new BATC Streamer.

===Using Adobe Media encoder===

For Adobe media encoder put the "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live/" string above the grey box in to... and the text "g8gkq-abcxyz" in the grey box in to...

===Using Vmix===

For Vmix, put "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live/" in the "URL" field and the stream name and key separated by a hyphen (for example "g8gkq-abcxyz") in the "Stream Name or Key" field.

===Using OBS===

For OBS put the "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live/" string above the grey box in to... and the text "g8gkq-abcxyz" in the grey box in to...

==Stream type==

This selection determines if your stream appears as a member, repeater or special event stream in the streamer main channel list. You cannot change this.

==Stream options==

* "Stream listed" You can decide if your stream is listed in the streamer channel list (by default streams are not listed and this box should be ticked to use the stream).

* The "Chat On" box is ticked by default; if you untick this, there will be no chat window associated with your stream.

* "Guest chat log in" If ticked it means that non-BATC Members will be able to post in your chat window; all they need to do is type "/nick display-name" and their chat will appear labelled with "display-name" or whatever they have entered. It is recommended that you normally leave this box unticked to prevent abuse of the service and limit chat access to logged-in BATC members.

==Streaming type==

The Streaming Type can be set to Flash or HTML5. Flash has the advantage of minimal delay, but is not compatible with the stock browser on some devices. (Flash will need specifically enabling in Chrome, Firefox and Edge browsers). HTML5 works with all modern browsers, including iphones and ipads but is subject to a 10 - 20 second delay.

Note that transcoding is done in the server and you do not have to change any settings on your encoder.

==Stream description==

The stream description is the area below the video player and text chat windows on your channel page. You can use this area to describe your channel and give more details of your group or repeater.

[[File:streamer.JPG|400px]]

It is a free text area and can include HTML - we recommend you use an external HTML editor such as https://html-online.com/editor/ to get the correct look and then paste the code into the space.

Please note any embedded content such as maps and time clocks etc from other sites must use an SSL connection and have an https:// address.

Configuring your channel

2018-05-28T13:53:23Z

M0DHP: /* Stream description */

* To configure your streaming channel you will need to log in as a member and then go to your account dashboard - see this page for more details [[Account_Dashboard|on your account dashboard]] - scroll down on the page to Streaming details.

[[File:Streaming Details.JPG|600px]]

==Chat nick name==

This field sets your nick name as it appears on any streaming channels you are watching when you are logged in as a member - by default it is set to "first name_call sign" and we would suggest you do not change it from this convention.

==Stream Title==

This field sets the name of your own personal stream that appears on the channel list under the main streamer menu. By default it is set to your callsign.

==Stream output URL==

This is the direct URL you can give to people to watch your stream. You cannot change this URL.

'''Note - the full URL is made up of the https address above the grey box PLUS the text in the grey box (which is the stream name) without any spaces between the 2.
For example the stream name for the above screen shot is "https://batc.org.uk/live/g8gkq"'''

==Stream input URL==

This is the input URL which must be put into your streaming encoder. You cannot change this URL and should not pass it on to anyone else.

'''Note - the full URL is "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live/xxxxx-yyyyy" where xxxx is the stream name listed in the first grey box and yyyy is the key listed in the second grey box. The stream name and key are separated by a hyphen.'''

===Streaming from the Portsdown===

The Portsdown is already set up to stream to the new streamer. All you need to do is enter the Stream details and

# Log on into Console mode and from the Menu select "3 Output"
# In the Output Parameters Menu select "3 Output Mode"
# In the Output Type menu use the down arrow to highlight "Streamer" and press the space bar and then enter.
# The correct stream URL of rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live should already be entered.
# Press enter to bring up the stream key page
# Enter your stream name (callsign) in lower case, followed by a hyphen and then the 6 character stream key. For example g8gkq-abcxyz
# Press enter to get back to the main menu.

Now, every time that you select "Streamer" either from the console menu or the touchscreen (or autostart into the streamer) you will stream to the new BATC Streamer.

===Using Adobe Media encoder===

For Adobe media encoder put the "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live/" string above the grey box in to... and the text "g8gkq-abcxyz" in the grey box in to...

===Using Vmix===

For Vmix, put "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live/" in the "URL" field and the stream name and key separated by a hyphen (for example "g8gkq-abcxyz") in the "Stream Name or Key" field.

===Using OBS===

For OBS put the "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live/" string above the grey box in to... and the text "g8gkq-abcxyz" in the grey box in to...

==Stream type==

This selection determines if your stream appears as a member, repeater or special event stream in the streamer main channel list. You cannot change this.

==Stream options==

* "Stream listed" You can decide if your stream is listed in the streamer channel list (by default streams are not listed and this box should be ticked to use the stream).

* The "Chat On" box is ticked by default; if you untick this, there will be no chat window associated with your stream.

* "Guest chat log in" If ticked it means that non-BATC Members will be able to post in your chat window; all they need to do is type "/nick display-name" and their chat will appear labelled with "display-name" or whatever they have entered. It is recommended that you normally leave this box unticked to prevent abuse of the service and limit chat access to logged-in BATC members.

==Streaming type==

The Streaming Type can be set to Flash or HTML5. Flash has the advantage of minimal delay, but is not compatible with the stock browser on some devices. (Flash will need specifically enabling in Chrome, Firefox and Edge browsers). HTML5 works with all modern browsers, including iphones and ipads but is subject to a 10 - 20 second delay.

Note that transcoding is done in the server and you do not have to change any settings on your encoder.

==Stream description==

The stream description is the area below the video player and text chat windows on your channel page. You can use this area to describe your channel and give more details of your group or repeater.

[[File:streamer.JPG|400px]]

It is a free text area and can include HTML - we recommend you use an external HTML editor such as https://html-online.com/editor/ to get the correct look and then paste the code into the space.

Please note any embedded content such as maps and time clocks etc from other sites must use an SSL connection and have an https:// address.

Configuring your channel

2018-05-28T13:51:47Z

M0DHP: /* =Stream description */

* To configure your streaming channel you will need to log in as a member and then go to your account dashboard - see this page for more details [[Account_Dashboard|on your account dashboard]] - scroll down on the page to Streaming details.

[[File:Streaming Details.JPG|600px]]

==Chat nick name==

This field sets your nick name as it appears on any streaming channels you are watching when you are logged in as a member - by default it is set to "first name_call sign" and we would suggest you do not change it from this convention.

==Stream Title==

This field sets the name of your own personal stream that appears on the channel list under the main streamer menu. By default it is set to your callsign.

==Stream output URL==

This is the direct URL you can give to people to watch your stream. You cannot change this URL.

'''Note - the full URL is made up of the https address above the grey box PLUS the text in the grey box (which is the stream name) without any spaces between the 2.
For example the stream name for the above screen shot is "https://batc.org.uk/live/g8gkq"'''

==Stream input URL==

This is the input URL which must be put into your streaming encoder. You cannot change this URL and should not pass it on to anyone else.

'''Note - the full URL is "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live/xxxxx-yyyyy" where xxxx is the stream name listed in the first grey box and yyyy is the key listed in the second grey box. The stream name and key are separated by a hyphen.'''

===Streaming from the Portsdown===

The Portsdown is already set up to stream to the new streamer. All you need to do is enter the Stream details and

# Log on into Console mode and from the Menu select "3 Output"
# In the Output Parameters Menu select "3 Output Mode"
# In the Output Type menu use the down arrow to highlight "Streamer" and press the space bar and then enter.
# The correct stream URL of rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live should already be entered.
# Press enter to bring up the stream key page
# Enter your stream name (callsign) in lower case, followed by a hyphen and then the 6 character stream key. For example g8gkq-abcxyz
# Press enter to get back to the main menu.

Now, every time that you select "Streamer" either from the console menu or the touchscreen (or autostart into the streamer) you will stream to the new BATC Streamer.

===Using Adobe Media encoder===

For Adobe media encoder put the "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live/" string above the grey box in to... and the text "g8gkq-abcxyz" in the grey box in to...

===Using Vmix===

For Vmix, put "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live/" in the "URL" field and the stream name and key separated by a hyphen (for example "g8gkq-abcxyz") in the "Stream Name or Key" field.

===Using OBS===

For OBS put the "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live/" string above the grey box in to... and the text "g8gkq-abcxyz" in the grey box in to...

==Stream type==

This selection determines if your stream appears as a member, repeater or special event stream in the streamer main channel list. You cannot change this.

==Stream options==

* "Stream listed" You can decide if your stream is listed in the streamer channel list (by default streams are not listed and this box should be ticked to use the stream).

* The "Chat On" box is ticked by default; if you untick this, there will be no chat window associated with your stream.

* "Guest chat log in" If ticked it means that non-BATC Members will be able to post in your chat window; all they need to do is type "/nick display-name" and their chat will appear labelled with "display-name" or whatever they have entered. It is recommended that you normally leave this box unticked to prevent abuse of the service and limit chat access to logged-in BATC members.

==Streaming type==

The Streaming Type can be set to Flash or HTML5. Flash has the advantage of minimal delay, but is not compatible with the stock browser on some devices. (Flash will need specifically enabling in Chrome, Firefox and Edge browsers). HTML5 works with all modern browsers, including iphones and ipads but is subject to a 10 - 20 second delay.

Note that transcoding is done in the server and you do not have to change any settings on your encoder.

==Stream description==

The stream description is the area below the video player and text chat windows on your channel page. This area can be used by you to describe your channel and give more details of your group or repeater.

[[File:streamer.JPG|400px]]

It is a Free text area and can include HTML - we recommend you use an external HTML editor such as https://html-online.com/editor/ to get the correct look and then paste the code in to the space.

Please note any embedded content such as maps and time clocks etc from other sites need to use an SSL connection and have an https:// address.

Configuring your channel

2018-05-28T13:51:36Z

M0DHP: /* =tream description */

* To configure your streaming channel you will need to log in as a member and then go to your account dashboard - see this page for more details [[Account_Dashboard|on your account dashboard]] - scroll down on the page to Streaming details.

[[File:Streaming Details.JPG|600px]]

==Chat nick name==

This field sets your nick name as it appears on any streaming channels you are watching when you are logged in as a member - by default it is set to "first name_call sign" and we would suggest you do not change it from this convention.

==Stream Title==

This field sets the name of your own personal stream that appears on the channel list under the main streamer menu. By default it is set to your callsign.

==Stream output URL==

This is the direct URL you can give to people to watch your stream. You cannot change this URL.

'''Note - the full URL is made up of the https address above the grey box PLUS the text in the grey box (which is the stream name) without any spaces between the 2.
For example the stream name for the above screen shot is "https://batc.org.uk/live/g8gkq"'''

==Stream input URL==

This is the input URL which must be put into your streaming encoder. You cannot change this URL and should not pass it on to anyone else.

'''Note - the full URL is "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live/xxxxx-yyyyy" where xxxx is the stream name listed in the first grey box and yyyy is the key listed in the second grey box. The stream name and key are separated by a hyphen.'''

===Streaming from the Portsdown===

The Portsdown is already set up to stream to the new streamer. All you need to do is enter the Stream details and

# Log on into Console mode and from the Menu select "3 Output"
# In the Output Parameters Menu select "3 Output Mode"
# In the Output Type menu use the down arrow to highlight "Streamer" and press the space bar and then enter.
# The correct stream URL of rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live should already be entered.
# Press enter to bring up the stream key page
# Enter your stream name (callsign) in lower case, followed by a hyphen and then the 6 character stream key. For example g8gkq-abcxyz
# Press enter to get back to the main menu.

Now, every time that you select "Streamer" either from the console menu or the touchscreen (or autostart into the streamer) you will stream to the new BATC Streamer.

===Using Adobe Media encoder===

For Adobe media encoder put the "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live/" string above the grey box in to... and the text "g8gkq-abcxyz" in the grey box in to...

===Using Vmix===

For Vmix, put "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live/" in the "URL" field and the stream name and key separated by a hyphen (for example "g8gkq-abcxyz") in the "Stream Name or Key" field.

===Using OBS===

For OBS put the "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live/" string above the grey box in to... and the text "g8gkq-abcxyz" in the grey box in to...

==Stream type==

This selection determines if your stream appears as a member, repeater or special event stream in the streamer main channel list. You cannot change this.

==Stream options==

* "Stream listed" You can decide if your stream is listed in the streamer channel list (by default streams are not listed and this box should be ticked to use the stream).

* The "Chat On" box is ticked by default; if you untick this, there will be no chat window associated with your stream.

* "Guest chat log in" If ticked it means that non-BATC Members will be able to post in your chat window; all they need to do is type "/nick display-name" and their chat will appear labelled with "display-name" or whatever they have entered. It is recommended that you normally leave this box unticked to prevent abuse of the service and limit chat access to logged-in BATC members.

==Streaming type==

The Streaming Type can be set to Flash or HTML5. Flash has the advantage of minimal delay, but is not compatible with the stock browser on some devices. (Flash will need specifically enabling in Chrome, Firefox and Edge browsers). HTML5 works with all modern browsers, including iphones and ipads but is subject to a 10 - 20 second delay.

Note that transcoding is done in the server and you do not have to change any settings on your encoder.

===Stream description==

The stream description is the area below the video player and text chat windows on your channel page. This area can be used by you to describe your channel and give more details of your group or repeater.

[[File:streamer.JPG|400px]]

It is a Free text area and can include HTML - we recommend you use an external HTML editor such as https://html-online.com/editor/ to get the correct look and then paste the code in to the space.

Please note any embedded content such as maps and time clocks etc from other sites need to use an SSL connection and have an https:// address.

Configuring your channel

2018-05-28T13:51:22Z

M0DHP: /* Using Vmix */

* To configure your streaming channel you will need to log in as a member and then go to your account dashboard - see this page for more details [[Account_Dashboard|on your account dashboard]] - scroll down on the page to Streaming details.

[[File:Streaming Details.JPG|600px]]

==Chat nick name==

This field sets your nick name as it appears on any streaming channels you are watching when you are logged in as a member - by default it is set to "first name_call sign" and we would suggest you do not change it from this convention.

==Stream Title==

This field sets the name of your own personal stream that appears on the channel list under the main streamer menu. By default it is set to your callsign.

==Stream output URL==

This is the direct URL you can give to people to watch your stream. You cannot change this URL.

'''Note - the full URL is made up of the https address above the grey box PLUS the text in the grey box (which is the stream name) without any spaces between the 2.
For example the stream name for the above screen shot is "https://batc.org.uk/live/g8gkq"'''

==Stream input URL==

This is the input URL which must be put into your streaming encoder. You cannot change this URL and should not pass it on to anyone else.

'''Note - the full URL is "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live/xxxxx-yyyyy" where xxxx is the stream name listed in the first grey box and yyyy is the key listed in the second grey box. The stream name and key are separated by a hyphen.'''

===Streaming from the Portsdown===

The Portsdown is already set up to stream to the new streamer. All you need to do is enter the Stream details and

# Log on into Console mode and from the Menu select "3 Output"
# In the Output Parameters Menu select "3 Output Mode"
# In the Output Type menu use the down arrow to highlight "Streamer" and press the space bar and then enter.
# The correct stream URL of rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live should already be entered.
# Press enter to bring up the stream key page
# Enter your stream name (callsign) in lower case, followed by a hyphen and then the 6 character stream key. For example g8gkq-abcxyz
# Press enter to get back to the main menu.

Now, every time that you select "Streamer" either from the console menu or the touchscreen (or autostart into the streamer) you will stream to the new BATC Streamer.

===Using Adobe Media encoder===

For Adobe media encoder put the "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live/" string above the grey box in to... and the text "g8gkq-abcxyz" in the grey box in to...

===Using Vmix===

For Vmix, put "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live/" in the "URL" field and the stream name and key separated by a hyphen (for example "g8gkq-abcxyz") in the "Stream Name or Key" field.

===Using OBS===

For OBS put the "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live/" string above the grey box in to... and the text "g8gkq-abcxyz" in the grey box in to...

==Stream type==

This selection determines if your stream appears as a member, repeater or special event stream in the streamer main channel list. You cannot change this.

==Stream options==

* "Stream listed" You can decide if your stream is listed in the streamer channel list (by default streams are not listed and this box should be ticked to use the stream).

* The "Chat On" box is ticked by default; if you untick this, there will be no chat window associated with your stream.

* "Guest chat log in" If ticked it means that non-BATC Members will be able to post in your chat window; all they need to do is type "/nick display-name" and their chat will appear labelled with "display-name" or whatever they have entered. It is recommended that you normally leave this box unticked to prevent abuse of the service and limit chat access to logged-in BATC members.

==Streaming type==

The Streaming Type can be set to Flash or HTML5. Flash has the advantage of minimal delay, but is not compatible with the stock browser on some devices. (Flash will need specifically enabling in Chrome, Firefox and Edge browsers). HTML5 works with all modern browsers, including iphones and ipads but is subject to a 10 - 20 second delay.

Note that transcoding is done in the server and you do not have to change any settings on your encoder.

===tream description==

The stream description is the area below the video player and text chat windows on your channel page. This area can be used by you to describe your channel and give more details of your group or repeater.

[[File:streamer.JPG|400px]]

It is a Free text area and can include HTML - we recommend you use an external HTML editor such as https://html-online.com/editor/ to get the correct look and then paste the code in to the space.

Please note any embedded content such as maps and time clocks etc from other sites need to use an SSL connection and have an https:// address.

Configuring your channel

2018-05-28T13:50:48Z

M0DHP: /* Using Vmix */

* To configure your streaming channel you will need to log in as a member and then go to your account dashboard - see this page for more details [[Account_Dashboard|on your account dashboard]] - scroll down on the page to Streaming details.

[[File:Streaming Details.JPG|600px]]

==Chat nick name==

This field sets your nick name as it appears on any streaming channels you are watching when you are logged in as a member - by default it is set to "first name_call sign" and we would suggest you do not change it from this convention.

==Stream Title==

This field sets the name of your own personal stream that appears on the channel list under the main streamer menu. By default it is set to your callsign.

==Stream output URL==

This is the direct URL you can give to people to watch your stream. You cannot change this URL.

'''Note - the full URL is made up of the https address above the grey box PLUS the text in the grey box (which is the stream name) without any spaces between the 2.
For example the stream name for the above screen shot is "https://batc.org.uk/live/g8gkq"'''

==Stream input URL==

This is the input URL which must be put into your streaming encoder. You cannot change this URL and should not pass it on to anyone else.

'''Note - the full URL is "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live/xxxxx-yyyyy" where xxxx is the stream name listed in the first grey box and yyyy is the key listed in the second grey box. The stream name and key are separated by a hyphen.'''

===Streaming from the Portsdown===

The Portsdown is already set up to stream to the new streamer. All you need to do is enter the Stream details and

# Log on into Console mode and from the Menu select "3 Output"
# In the Output Parameters Menu select "3 Output Mode"
# In the Output Type menu use the down arrow to highlight "Streamer" and press the space bar and then enter.
# The correct stream URL of rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live should already be entered.
# Press enter to bring up the stream key page
# Enter your stream name (callsign) in lower case, followed by a hyphen and then the 6 character stream key. For example g8gkq-abcxyz
# Press enter to get back to the main menu.

Now, every time that you select "Streamer" either from the console menu or the touchscreen (or autostart into the streamer) you will stream to the new BATC Streamer.

===Using Adobe Media encoder===

For Adobe media encoder put the "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live/" string above the grey box in to... and the text "g8gkq-abcxyz" in the grey box in to...

===Using Vmix===

For Vmix, put "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live/" in the "URL" field and the stream name and key (for example "g8gkq-abcxyz") in the "Stream Name or Key" field.

===Using OBS===

For OBS put the "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live/" string above the grey box in to... and the text "g8gkq-abcxyz" in the grey box in to...

==Stream type==

This selection determines if your stream appears as a member, repeater or special event stream in the streamer main channel list. You cannot change this.

==Stream options==

* "Stream listed" You can decide if your stream is listed in the streamer channel list (by default streams are not listed and this box should be ticked to use the stream).

* The "Chat On" box is ticked by default; if you untick this, there will be no chat window associated with your stream.

* "Guest chat log in" If ticked it means that non-BATC Members will be able to post in your chat window; all they need to do is type "/nick display-name" and their chat will appear labelled with "display-name" or whatever they have entered. It is recommended that you normally leave this box unticked to prevent abuse of the service and limit chat access to logged-in BATC members.

==Streaming type==

The Streaming Type can be set to Flash or HTML5. Flash has the advantage of minimal delay, but is not compatible with the stock browser on some devices. (Flash will need specifically enabling in Chrome, Firefox and Edge browsers). HTML5 works with all modern browsers, including iphones and ipads but is subject to a 10 - 20 second delay.

Note that transcoding is done in the server and you do not have to change any settings on your encoder.

===tream description==

The stream description is the area below the video player and text chat windows on your channel page. This area can be used by you to describe your channel and give more details of your group or repeater.

[[File:streamer.JPG|400px]]

It is a Free text area and can include HTML - we recommend you use an external HTML editor such as https://html-online.com/editor/ to get the correct look and then paste the code in to the space.

Please note any embedded content such as maps and time clocks etc from other sites need to use an SSL connection and have an https:// address.

Configuring your channel

2018-05-28T13:38:31Z

M0DHP: /* Using Vmix */

* To configure your streaming channel you will need to log in as a member and then go to your account dashboard - see this page for more details [[Account_Dashboard|on your account dashboard]] - scroll down on the page to Streaming details.

[[File:Streaming Details.JPG|600px]]

==Chat nick name==

This field sets your nick name as it appears on any streaming channels you are watching when you are logged in as a member - by default it is set to "first name_call sign" and we would suggest you do not change it from this convention.

==Stream Title==

This field sets the name of your own personal stream that appears on the channel list under the main streamer menu. By default it is set to your callsign.

==Stream output URL==

This is the direct URL you can give to people to watch your stream. You cannot change this URL.

'''Note - the full URL is made up of the https address above the grey box PLUS the text in the grey box (which is the stream name) without any spaces between the 2.
For example the stream name for the above screen shot is "https://batc.org.uk/live/g8gkq"'''

==Stream input URL==

This is the input URL which must be put into your streaming encoder. You cannot change this URL and should not pass it on to anyone else.

'''Note - the full URL is "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live/xxxxx-yyyyy" where xxxx is the stream name listed in the first grey box and yyyy is the key listed in the second grey box. The stream name and key are separated by a hyphen.'''

===Streaming from the Portsdown===

The Portsdown is already set up to stream to the new streamer. All you need to do is enter the Stream details and

# Log on into Console mode and from the Menu select "3 Output"
# In the Output Parameters Menu select "3 Output Mode"
# In the Output Type menu use the down arrow to highlight "Streamer" and press the space bar and then enter.
# The correct stream URL of rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live should already be entered.
# Press enter to bring up the stream key page
# Enter your stream name (callsign) in lower case, followed by a hyphen and then the 6 character stream key. For example g8gkq-abcxyz
# Press enter to get back to the main menu.

Now, every time that you select "Streamer" either from the console menu or the touchscreen (or autostart into the streamer) you will stream to the new BATC Streamer.

===Using Adobe Media encoder===

For Adobe media encoder put the "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live/" string above the grey box in to... and the text "g8gkq-abcxyz" in the grey box in to...

===Using Vmix===

For Vmix put the "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live/" string above the grey box in the "URL" field and the text "g8gkq-abcxyz" in the "Stream Name or Key" field.

===Using OBS===

For OBS put the "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live/" string above the grey box in to... and the text "g8gkq-abcxyz" in the grey box in to...

==Stream type==

This selection determines if your stream appears as a member, repeater or special event stream in the streamer main channel list. You cannot change this.

==Stream options==

* "Stream listed" You can decide if your stream is listed in the streamer channel list (by default streams are not listed and this box should be ticked to use the stream).

* The "Chat On" box is ticked by default; if you untick this, there will be no chat window associated with your stream.

* "Guest chat log in" If ticked it means that non-BATC Members will be able to post in your chat window; all they need to do is type "/nick display-name" and their chat will appear labelled with "display-name" or whatever they have entered. It is recommended that you normally leave this box unticked to prevent abuse of the service and limit chat access to logged-in BATC members.

==Streaming type==

The Streaming Type can be set to Flash or HTML5. Flash has the advantage of minimal delay, but is not compatible with the stock browser on some devices. (Flash will need specifically enabling in Chrome, Firefox and Edge browsers). HTML5 works with all modern browsers, including iphones and ipads but is subject to a 10 - 20 second delay.

Note that transcoding is done in the server and you do not have to change any settings on your encoder.

===tream description==

The stream description is the area below the video player and text chat windows on your channel page. This area can be used by you to describe your channel and give more details of your group or repeater.

[[File:streamer.JPG|400px]]

It is a Free text area and can include HTML - we recommend you use an external HTML editor such as https://html-online.com/editor/ to get the correct look and then paste the code in to the space.

Please note any embedded content such as maps and time clocks etc from other sites need to use an SSL connection and have an https:// address.

Configuring your channel

2018-05-28T13:37:59Z

M0DHP: /* Using Vmix */

* To configure your streaming channel you will need to log in as a member and then go to your account dashboard - see this page for more details [[Account_Dashboard|on your account dashboard]] - scroll down on the page to Streaming details.

[[File:Streaming Details.JPG|600px]]

==Chat nick name==

This field sets your nick name as it appears on any streaming channels you are watching when you are logged in as a member - by default it is set to "first name_call sign" and we would suggest you do not change it from this convention.

==Stream Title==

This field sets the name of your own personal stream that appears on the channel list under the main streamer menu. By default it is set to your callsign.

==Stream output URL==

This is the direct URL you can give to people to watch your stream. You cannot change this URL.

'''Note - the full URL is made up of the https address above the grey box PLUS the text in the grey box (which is the stream name) without any spaces between the 2.
For example the stream name for the above screen shot is "https://batc.org.uk/live/g8gkq"'''

==Stream input URL==

This is the input URL which must be put into your streaming encoder. You cannot change this URL and should not pass it on to anyone else.

'''Note - the full URL is "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live/xxxxx-yyyyy" where xxxx is the stream name listed in the first grey box and yyyy is the key listed in the second grey box. The stream name and key are separated by a hyphen.'''

===Streaming from the Portsdown===

The Portsdown is already set up to stream to the new streamer. All you need to do is enter the Stream details and

# Log on into Console mode and from the Menu select "3 Output"
# In the Output Parameters Menu select "3 Output Mode"
# In the Output Type menu use the down arrow to highlight "Streamer" and press the space bar and then enter.
# The correct stream URL of rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live should already be entered.
# Press enter to bring up the stream key page
# Enter your stream name (callsign) in lower case, followed by a hyphen and then the 6 character stream key. For example g8gkq-abcxyz
# Press enter to get back to the main menu.

Now, every time that you select "Streamer" either from the console menu or the touchscreen (or autostart into the streamer) you will stream to the new BATC Streamer.

===Using Adobe Media encoder===

For Adobe media encoder put the "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live/" string above the grey box in to... and the text "g8gkq-abcxyz" in the grey box in to...

===Using Vmix===

For Vmix put the "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live/" string above the grey box in to the "URL" field and the text "g8gkq-abcxyz" in to "Stream Name or Key" field.

===Using OBS===

For OBS put the "rtmp://rtmp.batc.org.uk/live/" string above the grey box in to... and the text "g8gkq-abcxyz" in the grey box in to...

==Stream type==

This selection determines if your stream appears as a member, repeater or special event stream in the streamer main channel list. You cannot change this.

==Stream options==

* "Stream listed" You can decide if your stream is listed in the streamer channel list (by default streams are not listed and this box should be ticked to use the stream).

* The "Chat On" box is ticked by default; if you untick this, there will be no chat window associated with your stream.

* "Guest chat log in" If ticked it means that non-BATC Members will be able to post in your chat window; all they need to do is type "/nick display-name" and their chat will appear labelled with "display-name" or whatever they have entered. It is recommended that you normally leave this box unticked to prevent abuse of the service and limit chat access to logged-in BATC members.

==Streaming type==

The Streaming Type can be set to Flash or HTML5. Flash has the advantage of minimal delay, but is not compatible with the stock browser on some devices. (Flash will need specifically enabling in Chrome, Firefox and Edge browsers). HTML5 works with all modern browsers, including iphones and ipads but is subject to a 10 - 20 second delay.

Note that transcoding is done in the server and you do not have to change any settings on your encoder.

===tream description==

The stream description is the area below the video player and text chat windows on your channel page. This area can be used by you to describe your channel and give more details of your group or repeater.

[[File:streamer.JPG|400px]]

It is a Free text area and can include HTML - we recommend you use an external HTML editor such as https://html-online.com/editor/ to get the correct look and then paste the code in to the space.

Please note any embedded content such as maps and time clocks etc from other sites need to use an SSL connection and have an https:// address.