Below is a pictorial representation of what happens when an amateur radio operator sends TV signals to VK3RTV the amateur TV repeater and how
it gets to ATV viewers.
The aim of this experimental service, a broadcast quality standard PAL(B) TV channel with audio (Analogue mono, Digital stereo) is self
education about TV and related subjects. Low output power <30watts on average limits reception and you'll need a high gain domestic or
commercial grade UHF antenna to receive a clear pictures with sound.
In this example the camera image and audio is transmitted to the TV repeater via the originating station VK3???'s transmitter. The uplink
signal is received and converts the video & audio information to a different format, either analogue AM TV or multi-stream DiGiTaL TV
on the downlink. All this happens in milliseconds and signal quality is only as good as the originating signal quality in. The repeater
beacon mode will assist you determin the best quality picture and sound receivable so you can compare to other stations using the
repeater their quality...
Observed amateur radio stations on VK3RTV can be from anywhere that is in line of site to Mt.Dandenong. VK3RTV is designed to retransmit
signals West, across the metropolitan area and to some limited degree East to regional areas while North and South areas are marginal at
best and may not be covered.
Accompanying audio is not always sent with picture or could be on one of the many other frequencies allocated to the amateur radio
service.
Observed stations will also have different picture and sound quality from each other and the repeater VK3RTV. This is due to many
factors, weather conditions, sending stations equipment, originating station location and their uplink signal power levels.
The repeater tends to develop faults too, it has been operating since 1977 and although it has had several refits over the decades the
building and support structures are always in need of ongoing maintenance. The extremes of weather conditions on coax cables, antennas,
tower structure, power supplies, other radio links, building cooling and security systems as well as computer interfaces, storage racks
and other users of the site; are all adding to the usual grind of wear and tear. Considering how small the building is and how much gear
is in it, it is a wonder it works as well as it does...
Observers are encourage to report reception and feedback on subjects shown. Persons interested in amateur radio or the displayed subject
are most welcome to make contact as shown at time of viewing. Keep in mind signals are not for entertaining the viewer but are for the
edification of the sender as he/she tinkers with electronic gadgets and gizmos in their pursuit of knowledge...